EU agrees to phase out Russian gas imports by 2027

The European Union has reached a long-delayed agreement to phase out imports of Russian natural gas, marking a major step in its sanctions strategy aimed at cutting Moscow’s revenue from energy exports following the invasion of Ukraine.

According to a Reuters report, the deal establishes a legally binding plan to gradually reduce both LNG and pipeline gas imports from Russia. The bloc will fully ban Russian LNG by the end of 2026, followed by a complete ban on pipeline gas imports in autumn 2027. Reuters did not specify what concessions were offered to member states that had previously opposed the measures.

Although Russian energy exports to the EU have dropped sharply since February 2022, the bloc remains Russia’s largest LNG customer. Russia accounted for 12 percent of the EU’s total gas imports in October, down significantly from about 45 percent before the war began.

Earlier this year, the EU took initial steps toward curbing Russian LNG by banning the transhipment of Russian cargoes through EU ports for re-export to third countries. But discussions on a full ban continued for months due to concerns among some member states.

Price was the main factor behind the resistance. Russian gas — even in LNG form — remains cheaper than US supplies due to shorter shipping routes, making it more attractive for buyers despite geopolitical considerations. Still, the EU has repeatedly shown a willingness to prioritise sanctions and energy security over affordability, even as European businesses warn of rising energy costs and the strain on the broader economy.

The new agreement marks one of the EU’s most decisive moves yet to reduce its dependence on Russian energy and tighten economic pressure on Moscow.