EU Plans to Allow Suspension of Russian Gas Import Ban

EU member states will be able to lift the ban on importing Russian gas in the event of a declared state of emergency. This measure will only pertain to short-term purchases of Russian gas.

The possibility to suspend the ban is included in a draft EU regulation published on the EU Council website. The provision for lifting the ban has been included 'within the framework of a general compromise'. The text states that this measure will only relate to short-term purchases of Russian gas. 'It can last for a maximum of four weeks with the possibility of extension if the emergency continues. The European Commission will be obliged to inform the European Parliament and the Council about the suspension and any extensions,' the agreement states.

The EU Council approved the plan to halt the import of Russian gas in October. Today, it was agreed upon by EU ambassadors. The decision was made while maintaining a transitional period for existing contracts. Short-term contracts signed until June 17, 2025, may remain in effect until June 17, 2026, while long-term contracts may last until January 1, 2028.