The European Union intends to completely stop importing Russian gas by January 1, 2027. This step is outlined in the new 19th sanctions package presented by the European Commission in September 2025. Thus, the EU has decided to accelerate its transition away from Russian gas by shortening the previously set deadline by one year.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Accelerating the EU’s energy independence
With the announcement of the new sanctions package, the European Union has clearly defined its intention to replace Russian natural gas with other sources more quickly. This decision was particularly emphasized by the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, who stated:
“Our goal is to accelerate the gradual phase-out of Russian liquefied natural gas by January 1, 2027.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, commenting on these changes, stressed that it is time to “turn off the tap” on Russian energy resources. She emphasized that the EU has already prepared for such decisions by reducing energy consumption, diversifying supplies, and investing in low-carbon energy sources.
Key restrictions of the new sanctions package
The 19th sanctions package proposes to prohibit transactions with major Russian energy companies – “Rosneft” and “Gazpromneft” – which previously had certain exemptions. It also includes an expansion of the sanctions lists to cover the so-called “shadow fleet” – over 560 vessels are already under EU sanctions, with an additional 118 planned to be added to the blacklist.
To eliminate financial loopholes, Russia will no longer be able to conduct transactions through additional banks, both within Russia and in third countries. For the first time, operations involving cryptocurrencies are also banned – the EU is restricting the activities of crypto platforms and imposing restrictions on foreign banks associated with Russian alternative payment systems. Additionally, operations in special economic zones are being regulated.
The sanctions package also includes stricter restrictions on the export of goods and technologies that could be used for military purposes. This applies to 45 Russian and foreign companies that directly or indirectly support the Russian military-industrial complex. As Ursula von der Leyen emphasized, in a war based on innovation, blocking Russia’s access to leading technologies is crucial, especially in the field of drones.
Von der Leyen also noted that according to the European Commission’s economic analysis, the sanctions are already having a significant impact on the Russian economy. This is evidenced by high interest rates, rising inflation, and constant requests from the Russian authorities for the easing of restrictions. She emphasized:
“Russia’s overheated war economy is reaching its limits. Even more interesting is that, when communicating directly with partners who are in contact with Russia, we hear that among the first Russian requests is the easing of sanctions. We know that our sanctions are an effective tool of economic pressure and will continue to use them until Russia sits down at the negotiating table with Ukraine for a fair and lasting peace.”
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the EU has been gradually reducing its dependence on Russian energy resources. Previously, the European Commission planned to stop importing Russian oil and gas by 2028, but now this deadline has been moved up by one year, highlighting the EU’s determination to achieve energy independence from the Russian Federation.