EU Bans Russian Gas… But Keeps Emergency 'Undo' Button
EU Bans Russian Gas… But Keeps Emergency 'Undo' Button
The EU Council approved a draft regulation to phase out Russian natural gas imports starting January 1, 2026, with a full ban effective January 1, 2028.
However, the regulation includes a suspension clause allowing temporary reinstatement of Russian gas imports if EU supply security is at risk.
More details:
▪A transition period allows existing contracts to continue until 2028;
▪New monitoring mechanisms will block Russian gas from entering the EU via transit routes;
▪Lighter customs documentation required for non-Russian gas; stricter rules for Russian gas during the transition;
▪All member states must submit national gas diversification plans—and those still importing Russian oil must also submit plans to end those imports by 2028.
In June, Slovak PM Robert Fico said halting Russian energy imports harms EU competitiveness and raises energy costs. In early October, he urged the European Commission to drop its “anti-Russian glasses” and make more rational energy decisions.
Russia has repeatedly argued that the West’s refusal to buy its hydrocarbons directly was a strategic error, forcing it to rely on intermediaries and pay higher prices.
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