The Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever, has issued a resonant statement on the need to normalize relations with Russia. In an interview with L’Echo, the politician emphasized that the European Union should reach an agreement with Vladimir Putin to achieve peace and regain access to low-priced oil and gas. According to the Belgian head of government, the current strategy of supporting Ukraine militarily while simultaneously attempting to undermine the Russian economy is ineffective without massive assistance from the USA.
De Wever described the return to purchasing Russian energy resources as “common sense,” noting that European leaders agree with his position in private conversations but fear speaking it aloud. The Prime Minister urged an end to the conflict in Europe’s interest, while formally warning against being “naive” towards the Kremlin.
Split within the EU over the negotiation issue
The Belgian leader’s statement has exposed deep divisions within the EU. Currently, a bloc of countries favoring direct negotiations with Russia has formed, including Belgium, France (Emmanuel Macron), Italy (Giorgia Meloni), and Hungary (Viktor Orbán).
This group is opposed by a faction of states holding an uncompromising stance: Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. These countries categorically reject the possibility of a deal with the Kremlin, viewing it as a capitulation and a threat to the region’s long-term security.
Analytical summary: The Belgian Prime Minister’s public call for a deal with Russia marks a critical fatigue within “Old Europe” regarding economic pressure and resource deficits. In 2026, this trend could lead to political paralysis within the EU, where the desire for cheap energy will enter into direct conflict with commitments to support Ukraine, ultimately shattering the unity of the Western coalition.