The EU will ban Russian pipeline gas and LNG by 2026-2027, with Hungary and Slovakia allowed emergency access.
Short-term contracts signed before June 2025 face bans starting April 2026 for LNG and June 2026 for pipelines.
Long-term LNG deals continue until January 2027, while long-term pipeline imports face a ban from September 2027, possibly moving to November.
Member states accelerated energy diversification after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, sending EU energy prices soaring.
EU reliance on Russian gas dropped from 45% pre-invasion to 13% in early 2025, yet imports still cost €10 billion.
Tensions Over Exemptions
Most EU countries supported the ban, arguing it reduces Moscow’s war funding.
Landlocked states claimed supply risks and higher prices threatened fair competition.
Parliament initially opposed exemptions but agreed to satisfy the Council and break the deadlock.
Hungary and Slovakia plan to challenge the law, accusing Brussels of violating EU treaties.
The emergency clause activates only if a state declares less than 90% gas reserves by November 1.
Countries must now create national plans to stop Russian gas and oil imports by March 2026.
Leaders Hail Independence
The law also bans imports via TurkStream, unless companies prove gas only transited Russia or Belarus.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the agreement ends Europe’s energy dependence on Russia.
She added that the bloc aims to weaken Moscow’s war finances and explore new energy partnerships.
Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen vowed never to return to Russian energy reliance, volatility, or manipulation.
Parliament negotiator Thomas Pellerin-Carlin said the law protects European jobs and prevents Russian market interference.
Energy ministers vote on December 15, followed by a parliamentary plenary vote later that week.
