Belgian PM blasted for calling to normalize ties with Russia

March 18, 2026

TL;DR

Belgian PM Bart De Wever proposed that the EU should negotiate with Moscow to end the Ukraine war and restore access to cheap Russian energy.
De Wever believes the EU's strategy of arming Kiev and economically pressuring Russia has failed, suggesting a deal and normalization of relations as the only remaining option.
He claimed that other European leaders privately agree with him but are afraid to speak out.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen rejected De Wever's proposal, with Kallas warning of 'more wars' and Jorgensen stating the EU would not import Russian energy.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot also distanced himself, calling normalization with Russia a 'signal of weakness'.
De Wever later stated his words were 'blown out of proportion' and referred to normalizing relations after a peace deal.
The controversy follows significant economic consequences for the EU, including Volkswagen announcing job cuts due to soaring energy costs and trade pressures after divorcing Moscow's energy.
A Kremlin envoy ridiculed Brussels' position, predicting further gas price rises and that Europe will 'inevitably beg for more Russian gas'.

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