European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed Friday that the European Union may shift its energy imports from Russia to the United States following President Donald Trump’s 2024 victory. The move would reduce Europe’s reliance on Moscow and strengthen transatlantic trade ties.

Von der Leyen, speaking in Budapest, highlighted the potential economic benefits of such a change. “We still get a lot of energy from Russia, and why not replace it [with] American energy, which is cheaper for us and brings down our energy prices,” she told reporters.

EU now wants to start buying energy from the US.

What changed, some election in the US?pic.twitter.com/ods8F31PfA

— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) November 8, 2024

The EU has increased purchases of American energy since the Russia-Ukraine war began but has struggled to fully cut ties with Russian suppliers. Trump’s return to office could pave the way for deeper energy cooperation between Europe and the United States.

Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of negotiating with Trump’s administration to align trade policies on shared interests. “Common interests are, for example… the whole topic of energy,” she said, signaling a willingness to work closely with Washington.

2 days after Trump wins, EU Pres Ursula von der Leyen says they want to start buying oil from the US & not Russia (0:31): “We still get a lot of [liquified natural gas] from Russia, & why not replace it by American LNG, which is cheaper for us and brings down our energy prices.” pic.twitter.com/wZkIjdsRKD

— Carmandy Graff (@GraffCarmandy) November 10, 2024

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also voiced support for a stronger transatlantic energy partnership. “From this point of view, I think the foundations are there for developing a common policy,” Scholz said during a press conference in Budapest.

Russia is now keeping the dollar. The EU is going to buy gas from the US not Russia, already. Trust the process. We didn't have to, we were energy independent, and he was fighting the Senate. The EU won't function without our support.

— The Constitutionalist 🇺🇸 (@WeWillBeFree24) November 9, 2024

Trump’s presidency is expected to bring significant changes to the U.S.-EU energy relationship, with both sides seeking to strengthen economic ties while reducing Europe’s reliance on Russian energy sources.