EU to End Russian Gas Imports by 2027 Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict

European Union energy ministers, meeting in Luxembourg, finalized a historic agreement to terminate all Russian gas imports, both pipeline and liquefied natural gas (LNG), by the end of 2027. This decisive step, awaiting European Parliament approval, aims to sever the bloc’s lingering energy ties with Moscow amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The decision marks a significant milestone in the EU’s strategy to achieve full energy independence and reduce Russia’s leverage over European markets.

Lars Aagaard, Denmark’s Energy Minister and representative of the EU’s rotating presidency, described the move as a “crucial” advancement. “We have worked diligently to eliminate Russian gas and oil from Europe, but the task remains incomplete,” Aagaard stated. The approved plan sets a firm timeline: new Russian gas contracts will be prohibited from January 1, 2026, with existing short-term contracts permitted until June 17, 2026, and long-term contracts until January 1, 2028. This phased approach accommodates member states with limited alternatives while prioritizing a swift transition.

The European Commission is simultaneously advocating for an accelerated LNG phase-out by January 2027 through a new sanctions package, though this requires unanimous consent from all 27 EU nations—a challenge given opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. These countries, reliant on Russian pipeline gas due to geographic constraints, were the sole dissenters, with Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto warning that the regulation threatens the nation’s energy security.

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Russian gas currently accounts for approximately 13% of EU imports in 2025, generating an estimated €15 billion annually for Moscow. The EU has already reduced its dependency significantly, dropping from 45% in 2021 to 19% in 2024, bolstered by increased LNG imports from the United States, Qatar, and Norway. The new measure builds on prior bans on Russian coal and most oil imports, reinforcing the bloc’s commitment to diversify energy sources through initiatives like REPowerEU.

The regulation mandates member states to submit detailed phase-out plans by December 2025, emphasizing renewable energy expansion and infrastructure upgrades, such as the Baltic Pipe and hydrogen-ready pipelines. This strategic shift not only strengthens EU energy security but also aims to curtail Russia’s ability to fund its military activities. With parliamentary approval expected in early 2026, the EU is poised to redefine global energy dynamics, advancing toward a sustainable, independent energy future.

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