First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Energy Denys Shmyhal welcomed the EU Council’s decision to adopt a definitive phased ban on imports of Russian gas. He announced this on his social media platform X.
According to Denys Shmyhal, the European Union will introduce a complete ban on Russian LNG from early 2027 and on pipeline gas from autumn 2027. The regulation provides for significant penalties for violations, ranging from EUR 2.5 million for individuals to EUR 40 million for companies.
“Independence from Russian energy resources is, first and foremost, about a safe and strong Europe,” the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy emphasized.
On 26 January, the EU Council approved a regulation launching the phased cessation of supplies of Russian pipeline gas and LNG. The regulation also introduces new rules to control the origin of energy resources and strengthens liability for attempts to circumvent the ban. It is expected to enter into force following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, tentatively in early February.
The EU Council’s decision on the phased ban on Russian gas imports demonstrates the European Union’s consistent commitment to fully eliminating its energy dependence on Russia and reinforcing the energy security of its Member States. The regulation obliges EU countries to prepare national plans to diversify gas and oil supplies to ensure market stability and achieve a complete phase-out of Russian energy imports by the end of 2027. In addition, companies will be required to notify national authorities and the European Commission of any remaining contracts related to Russian gas.
