The European Union is expected to keep its ban on Russian natural gas imports in place even after the war in Ukraine comes to an end, though opposition from some member states may complicate the plan.
Speaking on May 13, EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen stated that “regardless of the outcome of peace negotiations in Ukraine, the EU will continue to restrict imports of Russian gas,” adding that a legislative proposal is expected in June.
He emphasized that the EU’s roadmap to eliminate its energy dependence on Russia remains firm and independent of peace talks. “Our goal is to reduce Russian gas imports to zero by the end of 2027,” he said.
Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, the EU has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian gas-from 45% of total imports before 2022 to roughly 19% today. However, Russia remains a key energy supplier to parts of Eastern Europe, where some countries are voicing concerns over the long-term ban.
Hungary and Slovakia, in particular, have pushed back against the EU’s approach. Both countries rely heavily on Russian gas through long-term contracts and existing pipeline infrastructure.
Hungary signed a 15-year gas supply agreement with Russian state energy company Gazprom in 2021. Slovakia, meanwhile, receives Russian gas via the TurkStream pipeline.
Hungary has criticized the EU’s push to fully phase out Russian gas, warning that it could threaten energy security and drive up prices. Slovakia has also expressed concerns, citing the lack of sufficient alternatives to fully replace Russian supplies.
