Putin in Brussels for EU talks on energy, trade, security BRUSSELS, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Officials said Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Brussels for the first time since his re-election for a summit with the European Union. The New York Times said officials will discuss energy, trade and Syria and the talks were expected to be tense. Relations between the EU and Putin have been tainted by disagreements over gas pipelines, trade issues and human rights, the Times reported. The Times said energy will likely be a key issue, as the EU nations buy about 20 percent of their natural gas from Russia. The EU is also currently investigating whether Russian gas export company, Gazprom, has violated European antitrust laws. RIA Novosti said Putin also will push legalizing visa-free travel at least for business travelers. European officials have resisted the idea, fearing it will trigger a rise in crime and illegal immigration. Security issues will likely include Syria and Iran's nuclear program.