The European Union Council has approved a plan to ban all Russian natural gas imports by January 1st, 2028 — a major step that will permanently reshape Europe’s energy landscape. The measure, announced in Brussels, will apply to both pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), with new contracts prohibited from 2026.
The proposal must now pass the European Parliament, which is pushing for an even tougher stance — a full ban from 2027. The move was adopted under the EU’s trade policy, bypassing veto powers of member states like Hungary and Slovakia, which have long opposed efforts to phase out Russian gas.
Supporters say the policy strengthens Europe’s independence from Moscow. Critics argue it deepens the bloc’s reliance on U.S. energy imports, raises prices, and accelerates Europe’s de-industrialization. Energy costs, inflation, and geopolitical tensions continue to mount as the EU cuts its final energy ties with Russia.
If you live in the EU, what do you think? Is this a bold move toward energy sovereignty — or an economic misstep that will cost Europe its competitiveness? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Topics Covered:
– EU gas ban timeline (2026–2028)
– Hungary and Slovakia’s opposition
– Impact on energy prices and industry
– Shift toward U.S. LNG imports
– Europe’s de-industrialization debate
– Geopolitical consequences of decoupling from Russia
Credit to : World Affairs In Context