EU backs plan to end Russian gas imports by 2028

EU energy ministers endorsed a blueprint to phase out Russian gas, approving milestones that would bar new import contracts from January 2026, wind down short-term deals from June 2026, and terminate long-term contracts by January 1, 2028. The proposal, adopted at a meeting in Luxembourg, still requires negotiations with the European Parliament before it becomes law.

Brussels argues the phase-out is essential to cut funding for Moscow’s war effort and entrench the bloc’s post-2022 shift away from Russian energy. Russia’s share of EU gas imports has already fallen to about 12% from 45% before the invasion of Ukraine. To navigate political resistance, the plan allows flexibilities for land-locked members such as Hungary and Slovakia.

The measure passed by qualified majority, reducing the ability of a small group to veto the decision. Separately, diplomats are drafting a sanctions package that would prohibit Russian LNG imports a year earlier, from 2027, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas signaling a deal could be reached within days.

Supporters say the timeline gives industry room to secure alternative supplies while accelerating renewables deployment. Skeptics warn about costs and supply security, but the Commission maintains that diversified sourcing and efficiency gains can cushion the transition.