Media: EU pushes to bring forward date for banning Russian gas purchases

The European Commission is pushing to end all purchases of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by 2026 — one year earlier than previously planned — as part of its 19th sanctions package targeting Moscow’s war economy, according to a draft proposal seen by POLITICO.

The proposal, announced on September 19 by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to strike at Russia’s energy revenues, financial systems, and sanctions evasion networks.

“To further decrease Russia’s revenues from the export of fossil fuels, raise the costs of its illegal actions in Ukraine and put maximum pressure on Russia to cease its war of aggression against Ukraine,” the text states.

The move accelerates the EU’s phaseout of Russian LNG, ending long-term contracts by late 2026 and allowing only six months for short-term deals after the sanctions take effect. A separate legislative effort is underway to halt physical imports by 2027, but the new sanctions go further by also banning LNG purchases.

The package also proposes targeting crypto platforms and transactions to close a loophole used to fund Russia. It includes new restrictions on Russian banks, bans on EU companies dealing with non-EU ports involved in arms trade or oil price cap violations, and prohibits investments in Russia’s special economic zones.

In a first, the draft adds 45 more companies to the EU’s export control list for aiding sanctions evasion—including 12 Chinese, two Thai, and three Indian firms. Reinsurance of old Russian aircraft and ships will be banned for five years post-sale.

The Commission also seeks to ban “services directly related to tourism activities in Russia,” in a symbolic measure.

Despite pressure from the U.S. and growing European unity, the proposal may face opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. As with all EU sanctions, unanimous approval from member states is required.

By Sabina Mammadli