According to the Council’s website, the regulation forms a central element of the EU’s REPowerEU roadmap to end dependence on Russian energy, following Russia’s weaponization of gas supplies and repeated interruptions of gas supplies to the EU, which had a significant impact on the European energy market.
The proposed regulation introduces a legally binding phased ban on both pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from Russia, with a total ban effective from January 1, 2028.
The Council’s agreement maintains this deadline, sending an ambitious signal of intent to achieve the phase-out. This will contribute to the overarching goal of achieving a strong and independent EU energy market, while maintaining the security of EU supplies.
The Council confirmed that imports of Russian gas will be prohibited from January 1, 2026, while maintaining the transition period for existing contracts. In particular, short-term contracts entered into before June 17, 2025 may continue until June 17, 2026, while long-term contracts may continue until January 1, 2028.
Amendments to existing contracts are only permitted for narrow operational purposes and will not result in an increase in trading volume. However, with the exception of some specific flexibilities for landlocked Member States affected by recent supply route changes.
MNA/