The European Union’s Council of Energy Ministers has approved a full ban on imports of Russian natural gas, set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
The decision includes a transitional period for existing contracts. Short-term agreements signed before June 17, 2025, will be allowed to continue until June 17, 2026. Long-term contracts will have until Jan. 1, 2028, to comply with the new restrictions.
Hungary and Slovakia opposed the measure, citing concerns over energy security and supply alternatives.
The ban marks a significant escalation in the EU’s efforts to reduce dependence on Russian energy amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.