EU Sets 2027 Deadline to End Russian Gas Imports

The European Union has confirmed a phased plan to eliminate all Russian natural gas imports by 2027, signalling a major geopolitical and energy market shift. The decision follows years of tension arising from Russia’s use of energy supplies as political leverage.

Agreement Between EU States and Parliament

The ban represents a negotiated compromise between EU member states and the European Parliament. Lawmakers had pushed for an earlier cutoff, but the final timeline balances political urgency with the bloc’s energy security needs. A provisional agreement announced by the European Council formalised the phase-out schedule.

Timelines for Pipeline Gas and LNG Restrictions

Long-term contracts for pipeline-delivered gas will be prohibited from 1 November 2027. For liquefied natural gas (LNG), the long-term ban will start on 1 January 2027. Short-term contracts face earlier deadlines: 25 April 2026 for LNG and 17 June 2026 for pipeline gas. All dates remain subject to final approval from both the European Parliament and the Council.

Strategic Motive Behind the Ban

EU leaders emphasise that the measure aims to end dependence on Russian energy, which has been repeatedly weaponised during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The regulation seeks to protect European markets from supply shocks and ensure long-term resilience. It also fits within broader efforts to diversify energy sources and accelerate the transition to renewables.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Long-term pipeline gas contracts with Russia end no later than 1 November 2027.
• Long-term LNG contracts end from 1 January 2027.
• Short-term bans begin in April and June 2026 for LNG and pipeline gas respectively.
• The EU cites Russia’s “weaponisation” of energy as the core justification.

Debate on Using Frozen Russian Assets for Ukraine

Alongside the gas import ban, the European Commission is preparing a proposal to channel financial returns from frozen Russian sovereign assets toward Ukraine’s reconstruction needs. The plan includes the possibility of issuing a loan backed by immobilised Russian central bank funds. Belgium has raised legal concerns, as most frozen assets are held at Euroclear, but discussions continue as the EU seeks mechanisms to support Kyiv without triggering financial or legal instability.