EU negotiators agreed to block Russian pipeline gas and LNG by late 2026 and mid-2027.
The rules allow Hungary and Slovakia to keep access only during emergencies involving supply breakdowns.
Lawmakers intend to end all reliance on Moscow and halt financial support for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Disputes and Safeguards Among Member States
Most governments supported the ban to reduce Russian revenue, but landlocked states warned of supply risks.
Parliament opposed exemptions but accepted them after negotiations with the Council.
Hungary and Slovakia plan to challenge the law and accuse Brussels of violating EU treaties.
Officials added a suspension clause that the European Commission can trigger only during declared emergencies.
The clause applies when a country holds less than 90% of gas storage by 1 November in any calendar year.
Toward Full Energy Independence
EU data shows dependence on Russian gas falling from 45% before the invasion to 13% in early 2025.
Imports still reached €10 billion, with Belgium, France, and Spain receiving Russian LNG via transhipments.
The law forces states to publish national diversification plans and end Russian gas and oil imports by March 2026.
The rules also block gas entering through Turkstream unless companies prove non-Russian origin during transit.
EU leaders claim the agreement marks a decisive break with Russian energy and strengthens market stability.
