The European Commission has sought to reassure the public over fuel availability, with a spokesperson stressing that there are currently no outright fuel shortages in the European Union. The Commission underlined that the priority for European authorities is preparedness and keeping citizens informed. Ahead of the package of measures due on Wednesday, the Commission also pointed to the need to strike a balance between flexibility for member states and fiscal stability.
Commission spokesperson Eva Hriskova said part of the preparation involved keeping citizens informed. “The situation is not ideal. There is a crisis in the Middle East that is affecting EU markets. Our role is mainly coordination and preparation for different scenarios,” she said.
She placed particular emphasis on air transport, noting that the Oil Coordination Group met last week and is due to meet again later this week. “The availability of aviation fuel is a priority. In the EU, we have significant capacity for crude oil refining and fuel production,” she said.
Asked about summer travel, Hriskova said mechanisms were in place to address potential shortages and protect passengers. She explained that there was flexibility allowing for exemptions for airlines, in order to ensure the continuation of flights and the protection of passengers.
On the Commission’s forthcoming energy package, expected to be presented on Wednesday, officials declined to provide details, saying it would cover various aspects related to the current crisis, with an emphasis on balancing support with stability.
“We are trying to strike a balance – on the one hand, giving member states the flexibility to support citizens and businesses, and on the other, maintaining fiscal and economic stability,” the spokesperson said.