EU braces for costly winter energy market amid rising oil and gas prices

Alexander Exarchou, president and CEO of the Greek group Aktor, warned that Europe will soon face new inflationary pressures driven by the trajectory of oil and natural‑gas prices. He said the coming winter will make energy much more expensive, stressing that higher interest rates will tighten market liquidity. Exarchou suggested the EU create a common financing instrument, similar to the Recovery Fund or an Eurobond, to secure cheaper gas for households and businesses. He added that even if the war in Ukraine ends, energy markets will not automatically stabilise, and the timing of sanctions relief on Russia will be discussed gradually.

In a related commentary, Greek analyst Dimitris Tsiodras argued that deeper European integration is essential to confront a range of security and economic challenges, from the war in Europe to instability in the Middle East and shifting US policies. He cited poll data showing a strong majority of Europeans favour collective EU action and highlighted the potential of the 450‑million‑person Union to become a major global player. Tsiodras called for a shared defence and foreign policy, activation of Article 42.7, and robust mechanisms to support any member under attack.