The EU will block Russian gas pipelines and LNG by late 2026 and mid-2027, with exceptions for Hungary and Slovakia.
Short-term contracts signed before 17 June 2025 will face bans from April 2026 for LNG and June 2026 for pipelines.
Long-term LNG contracts may continue until January 2027, while long-term pipeline deals will end by September 2027, possibly delayed to November.
Member states prioritized energy independence after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, disrupting gas prices across the bloc.
EU data shows dependence on Moscow fell from 45% pre-invasion to 13% in early 2025, although imports still reached €10 billion.
Hungary and Slovakia Challenge the Law
Most EU countries supported the ban, citing its ability to weaken Russia’s war financing.
Landlocked countries warned of supply risks and higher energy costs compared to other members.
Parliament opposed exemptions but accepted them to reach a deal with the Council.
Hungary and Slovakia plan to contest the law, calling it a “fraud” and violation of EU treaties.
Leaders Viktor Orbán and Robert Fico maintain friendlier ties with Moscow than other EU leaders.
The law includes a suspension clause triggered only if storage falls below 90% by November 1.
Commission Declares Energy Independence
EU countries must submit national plans by 1 March 2026 to stop Russian gas and oil imports.
The law bans imports via TurkStream unless companies prove the gas only transited Russia or Belarus.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the agreement the start of Europe’s full energy independence.
Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen vowed never to return to dependence, volatile supplies, or Russian market manipulation.
Parliamentarian Thomas Pellerin-Carlin said the law prevents Russian energy shocks and protects European jobs.
Energy ministers will vote on 15 December, with a parliamentary plenary vote scheduled the same week.
