European Union countries have agreed to phase out gas imports from Russia by the end of 2027, marking a significant step towards reducing their dependence on Russian energy. The decision was made by energy ministers meeting in Luxembourg, who approved a plan proposed by the European Commission to eliminate both pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from Russia. This move is part of a broader EU strategy to wean itself off Russian energy supplies, which has been a challenge despite Moscow’s ongoing war with Ukraine.

According to Lars Aagaard, Denmark’s energy minister and current holder of the EU’s rotating presidency, this agreement is “crucial” for making Europe energy independent. The plan will be subject to approval by the EU’s parliament. Despite efforts to reduce Russian energy imports, the EU still relies on Russia for approximately 13% of its gas imports, worth over 15 billion euros annually.

The European Commission is pushing for LNG imports to be phased out by January 2027, as part of a new package of sanctions aimed at limiting Moscow’s financial resources. However, sanctions require unanimous approval from all 27 EU nations, which can be difficult to achieve. In contrast, trade restrictions like the one approved on Monday require the backing of a weighted majority of 15 countries.

All EU countries except Hungary and Slovakia supported the move, with the two dissenting nations being diplomatically closer to the Kremlin and still importing Russian gas via pipeline. Hungarian officials have expressed concerns that the new regulation will harm their country’s energy security, citing geographical constraints that make it necessary to import gas from Russia.

Under the proposed plan, new contracts for Russian gas imports will be banned starting January 1, 2026. Existing contracts will be allowed to continue, with a transition period in place. Gas imports under short-term contracts will be permitted until June 17, 2026, while those under long-term contracts will be allowed until January 1, 2028. The EU’s decision to end Russian gas imports by 2027 is a significant step towards achieving energy independence and reducing its reliance on Russian energy supplies.