European Parliament backs EU plan to end Russian gas imports by 2027

The European Parliament (EP) on December 17 approved legislation to phase out imports of Russian gas by 2027 in the European Union’s efforts to reduce its dependence on Russian energy and prevent its use as a political weapon.

Lawmakers voted 500 in favour, 120 against and 32 abstentions, clearing the penultimate legal hurdle for the measure. The ban is expected early next year, Caliber.Az reports via the EP's statement. 

Under the new rules, imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) bought on the spot market will be banned once the regulation enters into force in early 2026. Imports of Russian pipeline gas will be gradually phased out, with a complete ban set to take effect by September 30, 2027. During negotiations, EU institutions agreed to bring forward the phase-out timelines for most existing import contracts.

The legislation also introduces harmonised maximum penalties that member states must apply in cases where companies violate the ban. Operators will be required to provide customs authorities with more detailed documentation proving the country of origin of gas imports, a measure aimed at closing loopholes and preventing circumvention.

In addition, members of the European Parliament secured a commitment from the European Commission to prepare legislation banning all imports of Russian oil. The Commission is expected to present the proposal in early 2026, with the aim of ensuring the oil ban enters into force as soon as possible and no later than the end of 2027.

MEPs also pushed for stricter conditions under which temporary suspensions of the gas import ban could be granted, limiting exemptions to emergency situations directly linked to EU energy security.

By Sabina Mammadli