EU has decided to completely abandon Russian gas

If the document is approved, the total ban will come into effect by the end of 2027, according to the Council of the EU.

The document is a key element of the REPowerEU plan aimed at strengthening Europe's energy independence. The new rules establish a legally binding total ban on imports of Russian gas, both liquefied (LNG) and pipeline gas.

The final ban on long-term contracts for pipeline gas will come into force no later than November 1, 2027. For long-term LNG agreements, the restrictions will take effect on January 1, 2027.

For short-term contracts concluded before June 2025, a transition period is provided: the ban on Russian LNG will take effect on April 25, 2026, and on pipeline gas – on June 17, 2026.

To ensure compliance with the ban, the EU will introduce a system of prior import authorisation. For Russian gas, information will have to be submitted at least one month before delivery.

Any changes to existing contracts will only be permitted for technical reasons and will not be allowed to increase supply volumes.

Penalties are provided for both companies and individuals for violating the new rules.

The regulation also requires member states to submit national plans for diversifying supplies. The same requirement will apply to countries that still import Russian oil. The European Commission intends to propose a legislative initiative to end oil imports from Russia by the end of 2027 at the latest.

“This is a major victory for us and for Europe as a whole. We must end the EU's dependence on Russian gas, and its complete ban in the EU is an important step in this direction,” said Lars Aagaard, Denmark's Minister for Climate, Energy, and Utilities.

The preliminary agreement must be formally approved by the EU Council and the European Parliament before the document is finally adopted.

Photo: Kommersant.