Russia claims European Union countries have continued to purchase significant amounts of its oil and gas, totaling $320 billion since 2022, despite international sanctions imposed after the full-scale invasion of Ukraina. According to Russian Deputy Energy Minister Alexander Novak, these sales demonstrate ongoing energy dependence. The EU and European nations implemented sanctions in response to the conflict beginning in 2022, but many remained reliant on Russian energy supplies. This continued trade highlights the complexities of disentangling from Russian energy. The EU has committed to phasing out Russian gas imports by 2027, however, current data indicates significant continued financial exchange. This situation poses questions regarding the effectiveness of existing sanctions and Europe’s energy transition strategy.