The European Union has proposed a legally binding ban on Russian gas and LNG imports by the end of 2027, marking a major shift in its energy policy amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

This regulation aims to enhance EU strategic autonomy by reducing reliance on Russian energy, which has already decreased by about two-thirds since 2022 through sanctions and supply cuts.

The ban is part of a broader effort to phase out Russian energy, with imports of Russian gas under new contracts set to be banned from January 2026, and all imports ending by the end of 2027, though exceptions exist for landlocked countries.

The European Commission's regulation seeks to mitigate legal risks for companies with long-term contracts, requiring disclosure of contractual details and exploring compensation options for potential losses.

Many European companies with existing long-term contracts face complexities as some extend beyond the 2027 deadline, raising questions about future legal and market exposure.

Despite the reduction, EU countries still imported significant amounts of Russian gas and LNG in 2024, with exports expected to decline further in 2025.

Energy leaders like TotalEnergies' CEO believe Europe can achieve energy security without Russian LNG by 2028, thanks to new capacities in the US and Qatar.

The proposal was announced on June 17, 2025, following a detailed roadmap presented earlier in May, signaling a decisive move to cut reliance on Russian energy.

The regulation also targets Russian oil imports, with discussions ongoing about possibly moving the ban's deadline to 2026, led by European Parliament negotiator Ville Niinistö.

Concerns remain about potential dependence on US intermediaries in Russian gas routes and US involvement in Ukraine's gas system, raising strategic questions.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen emphasized that the ban is necessary due to Russia's use of energy as a weapon and will proceed regardless of peace negotiations.

The regulation is based on the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, allowing it to be adopted with a qualified majority, thus avoiding potential vetoes from countries like Hungary and Slovakia.

Provisions are included to prevent dependent member states from blocking the ban, possibly offering financial incentives to encourage compliance.