EU Gives Final Nod to Ban on Russian Gas Imports, Ends Energy Reliance by 2027

EU Legally Seals Exit From Russian Gas Supplies

European Union member states have formally approved a landmark regulation banning imports of Russian gas , transforming a long-standing political commitment into binding law. The decision represents a decisive geopolitical and economic shift, coming nearly four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and signalling Europe’s intent to permanently end energy dependence on Moscow.

Approval Achieved Despite Dissent

The legislation received final clearance at a meeting of EU energy ministers in Brussels, completing the bloc’s legislative process. While the majority of member states supported the measure, Hungary and Slovakia opposed it , citing heavy reliance on Russian gas for domestic energy needs. Hungary has indicated it may challenge the regulation at the European Court of Justice , arguing that the ban threatens national energy security and affordability.

Clear Phase-Out Schedule for Russian Gas

Under the approved framework, the EU will halt imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by the end of 2026 . Imports of pipeline gas will be fully prohibited from September 30, 2027 . To safeguard energy security, the regulation allows a limited extension until November 1, 2027 , if countries face difficulties filling gas storage facilities before the winter heating season.

Locking in Reduced Energy Dependence

Before the Ukraine conflict, Russia was the EU’s largest gas supplier, accounting for over 40 per cent of total gas imports. Following sanctions, supply diversification, and accelerated renewable deployment, this share declined sharply to around 13 per cent by 2025 , according to EU estimates. The new law is intended to make this shift irreversible, preventing a future return to large-scale Russian gas imports even under favourable market conditions.

Important Facts for Exams

• The EU ban applies to both LNG and pipeline gas from Russia

• Russian gas imports will be fully phased out by late 2027

• Hungary and Slovakia opposed the law due to energy dependence concerns

• Russia supplied over 40% of EU gas prior to the 2022 Ukraine war

Strategic and Global Implications

By codifying the ban into law, the European Union reinforces its long-term strategy to decouple from Russian energy amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The decision is expected to accelerate investment in alternative suppliers, renewable energy, LNG infrastructure, and energy efficiency . It also reshapes global gas markets, underlining Europe’s evolving energy mix and strengthening the bloc’s geopolitical posture in an increasingly fragmented international order.