The European Union is set to implement a ban on Russian gas imports by the end of 2027, as part of a new initiative by the European Commission.

This move is part of a strategy aimed at completely severing economic ties with Russia, according to Bloomberg.

Action Plan: EU to Fully Abandon Russian Gas Imports

The share of Russian gas in the total EU import volume has significantly decreased.

In 2024, the proportion of Russian gas was approximately 19%, while before the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it exceeded 40%.

To further reduce this dependence, the European Union plans to propose a complete ban on Russian gas imports as early as June.

These restrictions will apply to both new agreements with Russia and existing contracts.

It is expected that these measures, which also include spot contracts that account for about one-third of total imports, will take effect no later than the end of 2025.

Impact of Long-Term Contracts on the Ban of Russian Gas in the EU

A significant portion of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), like pipeline gas, is supplied to Europe under long-term contracts that include "take or pay" clauses.

The European Commission intends to inform the European Parliament about a proposal to ban the import of all Russian gas in June.

This ban is expected to come into force by the end of 2027.

According to sources, the implementation of this timeline depends on the ability of EU member states to increase LNG imports from alternative sources such as the USA, Qatar, Canada, and African countries.

Currently, the issue of LNG purchases from the USA is being discussed in the context of trade negotiations with President Donald Trump's administration.

EU Plans to Release Strategy for Ending Oil and Gas Imports from Russia in May

The European Commission intends to present an expanded phased plan to halt imports of Russian petroleum products and natural gas in May.

In response to Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the EU has committed to stop using Russian fossil fuels by 2027.

Analysts at the Brussels-based Bruegel research center have recommended that the EU consider imposing tariffs on Russian gas imports. A complete exit from Russian gas will necessitate increasing EU purchases from other suppliers, including the United States.

Currently, the EU is considering increasing its imports of liquefied natural gas from the USA.