EU Bans Russian Gas Imports in 2026 | JQJO

The EU plans to ban Russian natural gas imports starting January 1, 2026, with exceptions for pre-existing contracts and landlocked nations. This follows the REPowerEU Roadmap aiming to end reliance on Russian energy. New reporting requirements on energy import origins will be implemented. While a ban on Russian refined oil products is also proposed, Hungary and Slovakia, who have continued purchasing Russian energy, may receive extended transition periods. Unanimous EU support is needed for new sanctions.