A new bill adopted by Members of the European Parliament (EP) foresees the phased termination of the European Union's (EU) natural gas imports from Russia. This decision aims to enhance the EU's energy security and strengthen sanctions against Russia.
Redaksiya reports that at the EP's plenary session held in Strasbourg, a bill aimed at phasing out the EU's natural gas purchases from Russia was discussed. As a result of the vote, the bill was adopted with 500 votes in favor and 120 against. This decision will lead to significant changes in the EU's energy policy.
According to the law, a phased ban on pipeline and liquefied natural gas imports will be imposed starting from 2026. The goal is to reduce the EU's dependence on Russia and diversify its energy supply. Before the war, the EU's natural gas imports from Russia via LNG and pipelines stood at 45%, while in recent times this figure has decreased to 12%. This is a result of the steps taken by the EU to reduce its energy dependence on Russia.
According to the bill, the EU will halt LNG imports from Russia by the end of 2026 and pipeline gas imports by September 30, 2027. This decision will cause fundamental changes in the EU's energy supply and will encourage member states to seek new energy sources. The adoption of the law is an important step taken in response to the war in Ukraine and to strengthen the EU's sanctions against Russia.
After this phase, the law will enter into force upon its approval by the EU Council and publication in the Official Journal of the EU. This will mark the beginning of a new era in the EU's energy policy.