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Europe agrees on gradual phase-out of Russian gas imports by 2027
The European Union has reached a political agreement to fully eliminate its dependence on Russian gas by 2027, marking one of the bloc’s most ambitious steps toward energy diversification since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The deal, concluded between the European Council and the European Parliament, outlines a legally binding timeline to restrict and ultimately ban both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and pipeline gas from Russia.
Under the agreement, imports of Russian LNG will be progressively reduced throughout 2026 before a complete prohibition at the end of that year. Pipeline gas, which still reaches several EU members, will be fully banned by the autumn of 2027. The initiative is designed to accelerate Europe’s shift toward alternative suppliers and renewable energy sources amid ongoing concerns over geopolitical vulnerability.
Although Russian gas once supplied almost half of the EU’s total imports, its share had fallen to around 12% by October 2025. Some member states, including Hungary, France, and Belgium, continue to receive limited volumes, highlighting the complexity of achieving a complete cutoff.
European policymakers view the agreement as a critical step in reinforcing the bloc’s energy sovereignty. However, experts warn that the transition will require sustained investment in infrastructure, expanded storage capacity, and continued international coordination to prevent market volatility.
The decision also reflects Europe’s broader strategy to weaken the Kremlin’s influence over regional energy markets while maintaining pressure related to the war in Ukraine. The finalized legislation is expected to be formally adopted in the coming months, paving the way for implementation across all member states.
