The European Union has announced plans to phase out its remaining imports of Russian natural gas, marking one of the bloc’s most significant strategic shifts since the start of the Ukraine conflict. The decision, framed as both an energy-security measure and a political commitment, aims to end dependence on Russian supplies entirely within the next few years and reshape Europe’s energy landscape for the long term.
A decisive break from Russian energy
EU officials confirmed that the bloc will reduce Russian gas volumes to near zero through a combination of diversification, infrastructure expansion, and accelerated renewable investment. While Russian pipeline deliveries have fallen substantially since 2022, several member states have continued to receive limited volumes of LNG or pipeline gas. The new phase-out framework seeks to eliminate those final flows and prevent any future reliance on Russian suppliers.
Energy security at the core
The move reflects deep concern over Europe’s vulnerability to external pressure during previous winters, when gas shortages and price surges exposed structural weaknesses in the EU’s energy architecture. By committing to a full phase-out, the bloc aims to strengthen resilience and reduce exposure to geopolitical risks. Officials emphasised that removing Russian gas from the mix is essential to preventing future coercion and ensuring long-term stability in pricing and supply.
Infrastructure and diversification
Key to the strategy is accelerated expansion of LNG terminals, cross-border interconnectors, and long-distance pipelines linking Europe to the US, Qatar, Norway, and North Africa. Several new terminals have already come online, with more projects underway to increase capacity ahead of the next decade. Member states in central and eastern Europe, once heavily dependent on Gazprom, have pivoted rapidly to alternative sources and are expected to play a central role in the transition.
Renewables underpin the long-term vision
Alongside diversification, the EU is placing renewed focus on domestic energy production. Expanded wind, solar, and green hydrogen projects are intended to replace a significant share of imported fossil fuels over time. Officials say that the dual approach—securing short-term supply while investing heavily in renewables—is designed to ensure affordability and reliability as the continent moves towards its climate goals.
Newshub Editorial in Europe – 4 December 2025
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