(MENAFN) The European Union has moved closer to ending its dependence on Russian energy, as EU member states have agreed on fresh regulations aimed at gradually eliminating imports of Russian natural gas under the bloc’s "REPowerEU" initiative.

The suggested legislation would implement a legally enforceable, phased prohibition on both pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia, with a complete ban scheduled to come into force on January 1, 2028.

"An energy independent Europe is a stronger and more secure Europe," stated Lars Aagaard, Denmark’s climate, energy, and utilities minister, in an announcement issued by the EU Council.

"Although we have worked hard and pushed to get Russian gas and oil out of Europe in recent years, we are not there yet. Therefore, it is crucial that the Danish Presidency has secured an overwhelming support from Europe’s energy ministers for the legislation that will definitively ban Russian gas from coming into the EU," he continued.

According to the Council’s stance, imports of Russian gas will be prohibited starting January 1, 2026, with a transitional phase for pre-existing agreements.

Short-term contracts signed before June 17, 2025, may remain valid until June 2026, while long-term agreements will be allowed to continue until the beginning of 2028.

In addition, member countries endorsed new customs and authorization protocols to guarantee the ban’s enforcement.

These measures include mandatory documentation for gas imports and the verification of LNG cargo origins.

MENAFN20102025000045017167ID1110220862