The European Commission convened separate ad hoc meetings of the Gas Coordination Group and the Oil Coordination Group on 4th March 2026 to evaluate the state of the EU’s gas and oil security of supply in light of disruptions in the Middle East. During the discussions, member states affirmed that they currently see no immediate security of supply risks. Officials reported that oil stocks remain elevated, with no additional releases recorded since the Oil Coordination Group’s previous meeting. Gas storage filling levels across the EU were also described as stable, reinforcing the bloc’s assessment of near-future energy security conditions.
The latest review follows an earlier ad hoc session of the Oil Coordination Group on 25th February 2026, when the EU examined the implications of supply disruption in the Druzhba pipeline caused by Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. At that time, Member States similarly concluded that there was no immediate security of supply risks. In response to the Druzhba pipeline disruption, Hungary and Slovakia released portions of their emergency oil stocks, which are maintained as reserves, while simultaneously increasing reliance on alternative supplies. These measures formed part of coordinated efforts to safeguard a stable oil supply within the region.
All EU countries maintain emergency stocks of oil and petroleum products to address potential supply shocks. Given that approximately one-quarter of the energy consumed in the EU is derived from natural gas, ensuring continuity of supply remains critical for households and businesses alike.
The Commission underscored that it will persist in monitoring developments closely and maintain regular communication with Member States and market participants. In case a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz or further disruptions arise affecting flows, the EU will reassess its security of oil and gas supply. For now, authorities continue to report a stable oil supply and steady gas storage levels, signalling resilience in the face of external pressures.
