The European Parliament’s Committees on Industry and Energy, and on International Trade, have supported a draft law that introduces a complete ban on the import of Russian gas, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), starting from 1 January 2026. Limited exceptions would apply to existing short-term contracts until June 2026 and to long-term agreements until January 2027.
Under the proposal, energy operators would have the right to invoke force majeure to terminate contracts related to Russian gas imports. The draft also states that from 1 January 2026, temporary storage of natural gas of Russian origin within EU facilities will no longer be allowed.
To prevent loopholes and reduce the risk of circumvention, operators would be required to provide stricter and more detailed documentation to customs authorities, proving the country of origin of the gas before import or storage, with prior approval needed.
The proposal also seeks to extend the restrictions to Russian oil, banning all imports of crude oil and oil products derived from Russian crude starting from 1 January 2026.
