EU Council sets 2028 deadline to phase out Russian gas imports under REPowerEU

The Council of the European Union has agreed its position on rules to phase out Russian gas, LNG and coal imports, confirming a full ban on Russian gas by 1 January 2028.

The measure forms part of the REPowerEU strategy to end dependence on Russian fossil fuels while safeguarding energy security.

Key takeaways:

• From 1 January 2026, imports of Russian gas into the EU will be prohibited.
• Short-term contracts signed before 17 June 2025 may continue until 17 June 2026.
• Long-term contracts may run until 1 January 2028, when the final ban takes effect.

The proposal grants member states the legal authority to restrict or prohibit Russian gas imports—including LNG routed through third countries—while ensuring that security of supply is not compromised.

It also supports diversification toward renewable and low-carbon gases, reinforcing Europe’s resilience to external supply shocks.

The Council’s position will now serve as the basis for negotiations with the European Parliament on the final text of the regulation, expected later this year.

Source: Council of the European Union, 20 October 2025