Brussels seals historic agreement to put a total end to Russian gas imports. The measure, debated at length, aims to dry up one of Moscow’s main sources of income while accelerating the European energy transition. The deadline is set for autumn 2027, despite resistance from certain Member States.
Turning the Russian energy page
Almost four years after the start of the war in Ukraine, MEPs and member states have reached an agreement banning all forms of import of Russian gas – whether transported by pipelines or in the form of LNG. Ursula von der Leyen hailed a “founding moment”, ensuring that Europe was moving towards “total energy independence” from Moscow.
The fall 2027 deadline results from a compromise: the European Parliament called for a faster ban, when several capitals wanted more time to adjust their supply systems.
Supervised terminations of contracts
For gas transported by pipelines, long-term contracts can no longer be extended after September 30, 2027, with maximum application on November 1, 2027. For LNG, the end of long contracts will take place from January 1, 2027.
Short contracts will be prohibited from April 2026 for LNG and June 2026 for gas via pipeline. Companies will be able to invoke “force majeure” to justify the early termination of commitments.
Moscow denounces, Brussels assumes
The Kremlin immediately reacted, accusing the European Union of “condemning” itself to resort to “more expensive” energy. For Dmitri Peskov, spokesperson for Vladimir Putin, the measure will further weaken the European economic balance.
In Brussels, Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen, on the contrary, welcomed “the end of manipulation and blackmail”, affirming that Europe “remains united with Ukraine”.
Avoiding veto risks
In order to avoid a blockade of Hungary and Slovakia, Brussels chose the path of a legislative text adopted by qualified majority, rather than sanctions requiring unanimity.
Viktor Orban recently affirmed that he would continue to import Russian hydrocarbons. The agreement nevertheless provides for a future proposal from the Commission to definitively end imports of Russian oil into Hungary and Slovakia by the end of 2027.
The share of Russian gas in European imports fell from 45% in 2021 to 19% in 2024, thanks to a massive reduction in gas pipeline flows. But Europe has become more dependent on LNG, particularly American (45% of imports) and still Russian (20% in 2024).
In total value, Russian gas imports would still represent 15 billion euros in 2025, proof that the upcoming cut constitutes a major strategic shift.
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