Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
The European Union has formally approved a plan to phase out all gas imports from Russia by 2027, marking a major step in the bloc’s efforts to reduce energy dependence on Moscow amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The measure received final approval from EU energy ministers on Monday and will now be implemented into law.
The agreement requires the EU to halt imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by the end of 2026 and to cease pipeline gas imports by September 30, 2027. A limited extension until November 1, 2027, is permitted for member states struggling to meet gas storage requirements ahead of the winter heating season.
The law also allows member states to temporarily suspend the ban for up to four weeks if the security of supply is seriously threatened. Countries must submit national plans by March 1, 2026, outlining strategies to diversify gas sources and address potential challenges in replacing Russian supplies.
Hungary and Slovakia opposed the measure, citing their continued reliance on Russian energy. Despite this, the regulation was passed through a reinforced majority, bypassing the usual requirement for unanimous approval. Hungary has signaled its intent to challenge the legislation at the European Court of Justice.
Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow supplied more than 40% of the EU’s gas. By 2025, that share had fallen to approximately 13%, according to EU data. The new policy reflects the bloc’s broader goal of bolstering energy security, diversifying suppliers, and reducing exposure to geopolitical risks associated with Russia.
EU officials stressed that the measure aligns with the bloc’s commitments to energy independence and climate transition, while also sending a clear political message against Moscow’s military aggression.
