The first stage of the ban on the import of Russian gas has begun in the European Union

The implementation of the first stage of the ban on the import of Russian pipeline gas within the framework of the regulation on the phase-out of Russian energy carriers begins in the European Union on Wednesday. From this date, in particular, a ban on the supply of Russian pipeline gas under short-term contracts begins to take effect.

The Regulations were finally approved by the Council The EU in January 2026 and provides for a complete refusal of the European Union from importing Russian gas by the end of 2027.

The measure remains the subject of acute disputes within the EU. Hungary and Slovakia is challenging the regulation in the EU Court, arguing that in fact it is a sanctions mechanism that should have been adopted according to a different legal procedure and taking into account the principle of unanimity.

A separate lawsuit against the regulations was also filed by the Swiss company Nord Stream 2 AG, the operator of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. The company demands to cancel the entire regulation or its key provisions, stating that the ban actually deprives it of the opportunity to use the gas pipeline for commercial purposes.

Against the background of the energy crisis and rising prices in a number of EU countries, discussions continue on the possibility of a partial resumption of purchases of Russian energy carriers. Relevant statements have been made by individual politicians and business representatives in Germany, Slovakia, Hungary and a number of other countries in recent months, pointing to the high cost of alternative supplies and the decline in the competitiveness of European industry.

The European Commission refuses to listen to the countries and insists that the rejection of Russian gas is allegedly necessary to strengthen the energy security of the community and exclude the possibility of using energy supplies as an "instrument of political pressure."

According to the regulations, the next stages of the ban will be introduced in stages until the complete cessation of Russian gas imports to the European Union by the end of 2027.

The Russian Federation has repeatedly stated that the West made a serious mistake by refusing to buy from Russia's energy resources, it will fall into a new, stronger dependence, due to higher prices. Moscow said that those who refused, still buy more expensive through intermediaries and will buy Russian coal, oil and gas.