European Union member states have officially agreed to completely end gas imports from Russia by the end of 2027, marking a major step in the bloc’s long-running effort to reduce its dependence on Moscow for energy.
The decision, reached on Monday during a meeting of energy ministers in Luxembourg, forms part of the EU’s broader strategy to strengthen energy independence following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
According to the approved plan proposed by the European Commission, the phase-out will cover both pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imported from Russia. The initiative, however, will still need final approval from the European Parliament before it can take effect. Officials said the move would ensure that Europe’s energy supply becomes more stable and self-reliant over the coming years.
Denmark’s energy minister, Lars Aagaard, whose country currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency, described the development as a “crucial step” toward achieving true energy security in Europe. “Although we have worked hard and pushed to get Russian gas and oil out of Europe in recent years, we are not there yet,” Aagaard noted after the meeting.
The European Commission has also proposed that imports of LNG from Russia should be phased out even earlier by January 2027. This would form part of a fresh package of sanctions designed to limit Moscow’s financial resources used to fund its ongoing war in Ukraine.
Despite widespread support, the plan could face challenges as sanctions require unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states. Some countries have previously resisted strict measures due to their reliance on Russian gas and the economic impact of alternative energy sources.
The EU has been working since 2022 to diversify its energy supplies, turning to countries such as Norway, the United States, and Qatar for alternatives. Officials say this latest commitment is a decisive move to ensure Europe’s long-term energy independence and weaken Russia’s influence over the region.