EU Approves Ban on Russian Gas Imports by 2027

The European Union has given final approval to a regulation that will ban all Russian gas imports into the bloc by late 2027. This pivotal decision, reached by ministers from the 27 EU member states, allows the measure to become law. The agreement aligns with the EU's objective to reduce reliance on Russia, a former primary gas supplier, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The European Union has given final approval to a regulation that will ban all Russian gas imports into the bloc by late 2027.

Policy Details

Under the agreement, the EU will halt imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by the end of 2026 and pipeline gas by September 30, 2027. The law permits an extension of this end date to November 1, 2027, if a member state faces challenges in meeting required gas storage levels using alternative sources before the winter heating season.

The law permits an extension of this end date to November 1, 2027, if a member state faces challenges in meeting required gas storage levels using alternative sources.

Member states are mandated to prepare national plans for diversifying gas supplies and identifying potential challenges in replacing Russian gas by March 1 of the current year. The import ban could be temporarily suspended for up to four weeks if supply security is "seriously threatened" in one or more EU countries.

Opposition and Context

The ban was approved by a reinforced majority, utilizing trade and energy laws to prevent national vetoes, despite opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. Both nations remain significantly dependent on Russian energy imports and have maintained diplomatic ties with Moscow. Hungary has indicated its intention to challenge the decision in the European Court of Justice.

Prior to Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago, Russia supplied over 40% of the EU's gas.

Prior to Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago, Russia supplied over 40% of the EU's gas. This share decreased to approximately 13% by 2025, according to EU data.