The European Commission has unveiled a new set of legally binding proposals aimed at phasing out the European Union’s dependence on Russian gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) by the end of 2027. The move is designed to formalise the EU’s commitment to ending energy ties with Russia, following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
To ensure full implementation, the measures are structured to prevent opposition from member states like Hungary and Slovakia—countries that have continued importing Russian gas via pipeline and have expressed resistance to previous plans.
Under the proposed timeline:
- From January 1, 2026, EU imports under any new Russian pipeline gas or LNG contracts signed during the remainder of 2025 would be banned.
- From June 17, 2026, short-term Russian gas deals—those lasting less than one year—signed before June 17, 2025, would also be prohibited.
- From January 1, 2028, all imports under existing long-term contracts with Russia would be terminated, marking a complete end to the EU’s use of Russian gas.
Special provisions allow Hungary and Slovakia to continue pipeline imports until the final cut-off date in 2028, including under short-term arrangements, giving both countries time to transition and secure alternative energy sources.
The Commission’s proposals are part of a broader strategy to bolster energy security, reduce dependency on hostile suppliers, and accelerate the EU’s shift toward renewable and sustainable energy sources.