The ambassadors of European Union countries have approved a plan to phase out Russian gas imports by the end of 2027. Under the agreement, the EU will cease importing Russian liquefied natural gas by the end of 2026 and pipeline gas by September 30, 2027.
The ban on Russian gas imports requires formal approval from EU ministers and the European Parliament before it becomes effective. Parliament is scheduled to vote on the issue next week, with EU ministers expected to formally approve the measure early next year. EU officials anticipate strong majority support for the agreement despite opposition from Hungary and Slovakia.
Additionally, on October 20, the EU Council approved a proposal by the European Commission to ban Russian gas imports starting January 1, 2028. The bloc also decided to impose a ban on the transit of Russian gas through the union to other countries, which will take effect on January 1, 2026.
