The European Union has taken a decisive step toward ending its reliance on Russian energy, with the EU Council agreeing on its negotiating position for a draft regulation designed to phase out all natural gas imports from Russia by 2028.
The proposal, which aligns with the EU’s REPowerEU roadmap to bolster energy independence and security, sets a clear timeline for the termination of both pipeline and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports.
Under the plan, Russian gas imports will be prohibited from 1 January 2026, with a full ban to take effect on 1 January 2028.
Short-term contracts made before 17 June 2025 will be allowed to continue until 17 June 2026, while long-term agreements may remain valid until the complete ban comes into force.
Contract amendments will be restricted to operational necessities and cannot increase gas volumes, except under specific conditions for landlocked countries.
Denmark’s Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Lars Aagaard, said: “An energy independent Europe is a stronger and more secure Europe.
“Although we have worked hard and pushed to get Russian gas and oil out of Europe in recent years, we are not there yet.
“Therefore, it is crucial that the Danish Presidency has secured an overwhelming support from Europe’s energy ministers for the legislation that will definitively ban Russian gas from coming into the EU.”
To facilitate the transition, customs procedures have been revised to reduce documentation requirements for non-Russian gas imports, now requiring only proof of origin.
In contrast, Russian gas shipments will still demand more detailed documentation during the transition period, including contract details and any amendments.
The regulation mandates prior authorisation for all gas imports, setting distinct submission timelines based on the gas origin.
It also introduces national diversification plans, compelling member states to outline their strategies for sourcing alternative supplies.
Exemptions will be granted to nations that no longer import Russian gas directly or indirectly.
Similar measures apply to Russian oil imports, with a deadline to cease these by 1 January 2028.
The Council also enhanced information exchange between the EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators and the European Commission and requested a review of the regulation’s implementation within two years.
The next stage of the process will see negotiations with the European Parliament to finalise the regulation.
