The European Union officially bans imports of Russian gas until the end of 2027, despite the opposition of Hungary and Slovakia.

The European Union has adopted a law that bans imports of Russian gas until the end of 2027, turning the political commitment into a legal obligation.

Ministers from member states approved the measure in Brussels, with votes against from Hungary and Slovakia, while Bulgaria abstained. Hungary announced that it will challenge the law at the Court of Justice of the European Union.

The ban aims to stop imports of liquefied natural gas from Russia by 2026 and pipeline imports by 2027, with the possibility of postponement in case of difficulties. Imports of Russian gas in the EU have significantly decreased, from 40% in 2022 to about 13% in 2025. The law requires European companies to terminate existing contracts for Russian gas and provides financial penalties for non-compliance. The European Commission will also propose measures for the gradual elimination of Russian oil and reducing dependence on Russian nuclear fuel.