Concerns over EU fuel security were raised on Tuesday as Cyprus Minister of Transport, Communications and Works Alexis Vafeades warned of a possible disruption in transport fuel supplies due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking ahead of an extraordinary EU Transport Council meeting held via videoconference in Brussels, Vafeades stressed that Europe must remain prepared for both short-term supply risks and longer-term demand challenges affecting the transport sector.
He noted that although the situation is not yet critical, the possibility of fuel shortages must be taken seriously and addressed collectively.
Need to prevent market panic
The Minister emphasised the importance of avoiding panic-driven behaviour in fuel markets, such as queues at petrol stations.
He said the objective is not only to manage potential disruptions but also to eliminate the risk of such scenarios occurring in the future, highlighting EU fuel security as a key policy priority.
Vafeades added that the issue comes at a crucial time ahead of upcoming European discussions in Cyprus, which are expected to further shape the policy direction.
Aviation fuel concerns raised
Responding to questions, the Minister said there is currently no dangerous situation regarding aviation fuel supply, but stressed that preparedness remains essential as any disruption could affect connectivity across the EU.
He underlined that transport systems across all member states could be impacted, reinforcing the need for coordinated action.
Accelerate EU plan to strengthen resilience
EU Commissioner for Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas also addressed the issue, highlighting the European Commission’s upcoming energy initiative, Accelerate EU, which will be presented on Wednesday.
He said the plan will place strong emphasis on transport fuels, particularly aviation fuel, in response to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
Tzitzikostas stressed that EU fuel security requires a unified approach, with member states working together to strengthen resilience in transport systems and supply chains.
Call for coordinated European response
The Commissioner said the crisis is already affecting all modes of transport across EU countries and has implications for both citizens and businesses due to rising costs.
He added that Europe must not only respond to immediate challenges but also prepare systems to withstand future price shocks and supply disruptions.
Both officials emphasised that collective European action will be essential in safeguarding energy stability and ensuring the continuity of transport networks across the bloc.
Also read: Crisis domino effect: Pressure on fuel, tourism and real estate
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