The measure is part of the REPowerEU regulation adopted earlier this year, which establishes a legally binding timetable for ending imports of both Russian pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The EU is moving toward a complete phaseout of Russian gas despite ongoing energy market pressures linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Under the regulation, different categories of contracts face separate deadlines.
The ban on Russian pipeline gas imported under short-term contracts took effect on June 17, 2026.
A similar prohibition on LNG imports under short-term contracts entered into force on April 25, 2026.
Long-term LNG contracts will be banned beginning Jan. 1, 2027, a measure that also aligns with the European Union's 19th sanctions package against Russia.
Long-term contracts for Russian pipeline gas are scheduled to be phased out by Sept. 30, 2027. The deadline could be extended to Nov. 1 if member states encounter difficulties filling gas storage facilities ahead of winter.
Russia unlikely to regain former market position
The International Energy Agency has previously stated that Russia is unlikely to ever regain the dominant position it held in global natural gas markets before launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The latest restrictions build on legislation adopted by the European Parliament in December 2025 calling for a complete phaseout of Russian gas imports by autumn 2027.
EU member states gave final approval to the plan on Jan. 26, 2026.
Slovakia and Hungary were the only countries to vote against the measure.
Both governments later announced plans to challenge the decision before the Court of Justice of the European Union after the final REPowerEU regulation was published.
The REPowerEU regulation, which sets out the gradual elimination of Russian pipeline gas and LNG imports, was officially published in the Official Journal of the European Union on Feb. 2, 2026.