EU agrees complete ban of Russian gas imports by 2027

"Under the agreement, the EU will halt imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by the end of 2026 and of pipeline gas by September 30, 2027. Under the law, that end date can be moved back to November 1, 2027, if a member state is having difficulties reaching its required gas storage levels with other sources ahead of the winter heating season."

"Although unanimity is normally required for resolutions by the bloc, this ban was designed to be approved only by a reinforced majority, using trade and energy laws that avoid national vetoes. This enabled it to be pushed through despite the opposition of Hungary and Slovakia, both of which remain heavily dependent on Russian energy imports and have kept up friendly relations with Moscow despite its illegal invasion. Hungary said it would take the case to the European Court of Justice."

Ministers from all 27 EU member states approved a regulation that will ban Russian gas imports into the bloc by late 2027. The ban requires LNG imports to stop by the end of 2026 and pipeline gas by September 30, 2027, with a possible delay to November 1, 2027 if storage levels cannot be met. Member states must prepare diversification plans by March 1 and the import ban can be suspended for up to four weeks if supply security is seriously threatened. The measure passed by a reinforced majority despite opposition from Hungary and Slovakia; Hungary plans to challenge it at the European Court of Justice. Russian gas supplied over 40% of EU needs before the invasion, falling to around 13% by 2025.

Read at www.dw.com