EU Approves Phased Ban on Russian Gas Imports by 2028

European Union energy ministers approved a plan on October 20, 2025, in Luxembourg to completely phase out all Russian pipeline and liquefied natural gas imports by January 1, 2028. Part of the REPowerEU strategy, the regulation prohibits new Russian gas contracts starting January 1, 2026. Existing short-term contracts may remain valid until June 17, 2026, while long-term contracts are permitted until the 2028 deadline. To prevent evasion, the EU will implement a prior authorization regime and stricter controls on gas transiting to non-EU nations.

Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, stated the measure is intended to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of a planned peace summit with U.S. President Donald Trump, arguing that Russia only negotiates when forced. The decision follows criticism from Donald Trump, who accused the bloc of funding the war in Ukraine through continued energy purchases. As of 2025, Russian gas accounted for approximately 13 percent of EU imports, valued at over 15 billion euros annually.

Hungary and Slovakia opposed the measure, citing geographical constraints and energy security risks. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó condemned the use of a qualified majority vote rather than unanimity, calling the move a violation of EU treaties. Hungary has announced it will challenge the legality of the decision in the European Court of Justice. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen defended the legal basis, classifying the ban as a trade measure because Russia is not a reliable trading partner. The plan now awaits final approval and negotiations with the European Parliament.