The decision to end imports of Russian energy came after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with the final roadmap of exactly how it will be instituted one more step closer to becoming a reality.
On the European Council website, the EU’s provisional agreement is explained, including the different stages of the progressive ban. The regulation introduces a legally binding prohibition on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and pipeline gas imports from Russia, with a full ban from the end of 2026 and autumn 2027, respectively.
Once the plans are fully adopted, the bans will come into place 6 weeks after the regulations’ adoption.
The scheme distinguishes between long-term and short-term energy contracts, meaning there are different deadlines for different parts of the prohibition.
For short-term supply contracts concluded before 17 June 2025, the prohibition of Russian gas imports will apply from 25 April 2026 for LNG and 17 June 2026 for pipeline gas
For long-term contracts for LNG imports, the prohibition will apply from 1 January 2027, and from 30 September for long-term contracts for pipeline gas imports.
Commenting on the proposal, Denmark’s minister for climate, energy and utilities, Lars Aagaard, said: “This is a big win for us and for all of Europe. We have to put an end to EU’s dependence on Russian gas and banning it in the EU permanently is a major step in the right direction. I am very pleased and proud that we have been able to reach an agreement with the European Parliament so quickly. It shows that we are committed to strengthening our security and safeguarding our energy supply.”
The regulation mandates all member states to submit national diversification plans outlining measures for diversifying their gas supplies and potential challenges, with effective, proportionate, and dissuasive penalties for failure to comply.
The plan will also have a suspension clause in case of an emergency of energy security for a particular nation, temporarily lifting the ban in certain circumstances.
Despite overwhelming support, there is expected to be opposition to the plan from Hungary and Slovakia, which have governments more aligned with Russia.