European Commission plans comprehensive ban on imports of Russian oil and gas

The European Commission on the 17th proposed a legislative initiative to phase out EU imports of Russian natural gas and oil by the end of 2027.

The proposal calls for phasing out, by the end of 2027, direct or indirect imports of pipeline natural gas (PNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia, while completely halting imports of Russian oil.

It also proposes banning imports of Russian natural gas under new contracts starting January 1, 2026, with all imports under long-term contracts to be fully terminated by the end of 2027.

This proposal further advances the energy roadmap adopted by the European Commission last month. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the initiative aims to eliminate the EU's dependence on Russian fossil fuels.

The proposal will follow the ordinary legislative procedure and is expected to be formally adopted with support from the majority of member states.

On the 16th, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said energy policy falls within national sovereignty and that the plan threatens Hungary's sovereignty and energy security. A spokesperson for Slovakia's EU delegation confirmed that the country shares Hungary’s position. Austria’s Ministry of Energy stated that the EU should retain the possibility of resuming Russian gas imports after the conflict in Ukraine ends.

Source: Xinhua News Agency