Turkey (Commerce Desk): The 27 member states of the European Union have officially adopted a new regulation to end imports of Russian pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
According to a briefing by the European Council, the new rules will strengthen energy supply monitoring and accelerate measures to diversify energy sources. This move is a major step under the EU’s REPowerEU plan to reduce dependence on Russian energy.
Under the regulation, imports of Russian pipeline gas and LNG will be prohibited. The ban will take effect six weeks after implementation, while existing contracts will remain valid during a transitional period. Full LNG imports prohibition will begin in early 2027, and the complete pipeline gas ban will be enforced in autumn 2027.
Before allowing gas imports, member states must verify the source country. Violations of the new rules could result in fines of at least €2.5 million for individuals and at least €40 million for companies, or 3.5% of the company’s global annual revenue, or 300% of the estimated transaction value.
By March 1, 2026, member states must prepare national plans detailing how they will replace Russian gas with diversified sources and address potential challenges. During this period, companies must report remaining Russian gas contracts to national authorities and the European Commission. Member states continuing Russian oil imports must also submit diversification plans.
