The European Union is set to abandon its push for a global ban on oil and gas extraction in the Arctic, according to a draft of its new Arctic strategy. Previously, the EU advocated for an international moratorium on both the extraction and purchase of Arctic oil and gas. This shift marks a departure from the EU’s 2021 strategy, which strongly opposed all petroleum activities in the Arctic region. The draft strategy, which is subject to change before its official release on Tuesday, indicates a softening of the EU’s stance. While details remain fluid, the move suggests a more pragmatic approach to energy security concerns. This revised policy does not indicate support for Arctic drilling, but a removal of active campaigning for a global prohibition. The EU is now focused on a broader Arctic strategy that encompasses multiple dimensions.