The European Union (EU) has agreed to phase out all Russian gas imports by January 1, 2028, in a decisive move to curb Moscow’s energy revenues and strengthen Europe’s energy independence.
The decision was approved by EU energy ministers during a meeting held in Luxembourg on Monday, marking one of the bloc’s strongest policy steps since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
According to the Council of the European Union, the plan establishes a structured phase-out timeline that begins with a ban on new Russian gas contracts from January 2026. Existing short-term contracts will be discontinued by June 2026, while all long-term agreements will be fully terminated by January 2028.
The EU said the measure reaffirms its determination to reduce reliance on Russian energy supplies and build a more resilient energy market for member states amid the continuing conflict in Ukraine.
“This decision sends a clear signal of unity and resolve,” the Council noted, emphasizing that the transition will also accelerate Europe’s shift toward renewable energy sources and energy efficiency.
The move follows months of negotiations and reflects the EU’s broader strategy to weaken Russia’s financial capacity to sustain its war effort while ensuring energy stability across the continent.
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