Energy Ministers across the European Union have formally endorsed a comprehensive strategy designed to systematically halt the importation of Russian natural gas and oil. This landmark decision, reached in Brussels on October 20, 2025, is primarily aimed at diminishing the bloc’s reliance on Russian energy supplies and simultaneously restricting the financial resources utilized by the Kremlin to underwrite its military actions in Ukraine.
The phase-out schedule dictates precise deadlines for natural gas. Following a proposal put forth by the European Commission, the signing of any new contracts for Russian gas deliveries will be prohibited starting January 1, 2026. Existing short-term supply agreements are permitted to run their course until June 17, 2026. Crucially, long-term contracts, which represent the bulk of current supply commitments, must be terminated by early 2028.
The measures extend beyond gas to include crude oil. All imports of Russian oil must cease entirely by the close of 2027. Recognizing the unique logistical challenges faced by certain member states, specific concessions have been granted to landlocked nations, notably Hungary and Slovakia. These countries remain the most heavily dependent on Russian gas infrastructure, necessitating a more gradual transition. Despite the overall reduction efforts, several other nations, including France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, continue to receive Russian gas shipments.
While the EU is moving decisively to sever these energy ties, the current share of Russian fossil fuels in the bloc’s energy mix has already decreased significantly. Presently, Russian gas accounts for approximately 13% of the EU’s total gas imports, while Russian oil constitutes a mere 3% of the bloc's oil imports. As the EU pivots away from Moscow, the majority of Russia’s fuel exports are now being redirected to new major markets, primarily China, India, and Turkey.
This strategic move aligns closely with the overarching RepowerEU initiative, which seeks to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources, enhance energy efficiency across the continent, and diversify supply chains away from single sources. European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jørgensen underscored the long-term importance of the mandate, stating that the decision represents “a step for the present situation and the future,” reflecting the EU’s commitment to reduce its reliance on any single supplier.
The discussions leading up to the approval involved intense debate among member states. Lars Aagaard, the Danish Energy Minister, championed the plan, calling it “key for Europe’s energy independence.” Conversely, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó voiced considerable apprehension regarding the potential impact on his country’s energy supply stability. Despite these objections, the Council of the EU successfully adopted the plan by employing a qualified majority vote, which requires approval from a minimum of 55% of the member states. This voting threshold ensured that the opposing positions of Hungary and Slovakia could not derail the final decision.
Looking ahead, the EU is simultaneously preparing a subsequent package of sanctions targeting Russia. This upcoming measure is expected to include a prohibition on the import of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), scheduled to take effect in January 2027. Concurrently, the bloc is strengthening energy collaboration with the United States, formalized through agreements that secure LNG supplies valued at $750 billion over the next three years.
It is important to note that the plan is not yet finalized. It must still undergo final ratification by the European Parliament. Furthermore, the ultimate regulatory framework remains subject to potential adjustments, which may be implemented to accommodate the specific concerns and positions of all participating member states.