EU energy ministers are looking at steps to prevent Russia’s gas supply cutoff from unleashing rationing, blackouts or even social unrest. Maria Tadeo reports. Natural gas prices dropped, with the European Union preparing for unprecedented intervention in energy markets to prevent a supply crisis from engulfing the broader economy. Benchmark futures fell as much as 7.1%. Still, prices remain about eight times higher than the 5-year average for the time of year. EU energy ministers are gathering in Brussels on Friday to discuss next steps. The bloc is hoarding gas to prepare for the winter, while Russia curbs supplies in the fallout over its war in Ukraine. The supply crunch has had far-reaching effects: forcing vital utilities to seek government aid, causing factory closures, undermining the regional currency and leading to plans for potential energy rationing. Ahead of the discussions, EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson said energy markets […]