EU Agrees Permanent Ban on Russian Gas Imports and Sets Timeline for Oil Phaseout

The European Union has agreed to permanently halt imports of Russian gas and move towards the phaseout of Russian oil, marking a decisive step in ending the bloc’s long-standing dependency on Russian energy. 

The agreement sets out a phased timetable for the cessation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and pipeline gas imports, with final deadlines in 2027.

Under the terms, LNG imports will be phased out by the end of 2026, while pipeline gas will cease by the end of September 2027. In exceptional cases, member states may extend the deadline until 31st October 2027 if their storage levels fall below required filling thresholds. 

For short-term supply contracts concluded before 17th June 2025, the prohibition will apply from 25th April 2026 for LNG and 17th June 2026 for pipeline gas. Long-term LNG contracts signed before that date will be prohibited from 1st January 2027, in line with the EU’s 19th sanctions package. 

Pipeline gas imports under long-term contracts will only be permitted until 30th September 2027, with the possibility of extension to 1st November 2027 if storage requirements are not met.

The European Commission has committed to ensuring that all Russian gas imports are phased out by November 2027 at the latest. Amendments to existing contracts will only be permitted for narrowly defined operational purposes and cannot result in increased volumes or prices.

“Today, we are stopping these imports permanently. By depleting Putin’s war chest, we stand in solidarity with Ukraine and set our sights on new energy partnerships and opportunities for the sector,” said European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen.

As part of the deal, EU member states will be required to submit national diversification plans by 1st March 2026, outlining measures to diversify their gas and oil supplies. They must also notify the Commission within one month of the regulation’s entry into force whether they have Russian gas supply contracts or national legal bans in place. The Commission will then issue recommendations based on this feedback, guiding member states towards alternative energy partnerships and supply routes.

The agreement is one of the most significant steps yet in the EU’s energy transition, reinforcing its commitment to reducing reliance on Russian fossil fuels while accelerating investment in alternative sources. 

It also demonstrates the bloc’s determination to align energy policy with geopolitical strategy, using sanctions to weaken Russia’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine while strengthening Europe’s long-term energy security.

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