Agreement reached to turn off tap on Russian oil and gas

The European Parliament and EU member states have reached an agreement to phase out Russian gas, LNG, oil, and petroleum products, strengthening the European Commission’s REPowerEU proposal and closing key loopholes to prevent circumvention.

"Tonight’s agreement sends a clear and powerful message: Europe will never again be dependent on Russian gas. This is a major achievement and a historic turning point in our energy policy. The European Parliament had adopted an exceptionally firm and sound position, significantly strengthening the Commission’s proposal. Of course, the result is a compromise, as we had to take into account the interests of Member States, but the direction is clear. Europe paid Russia more for energy than it provided to Ukraine in support. Every day Europe continues purchasing Russian energy means lives lost in Ukraine,” says Inese Vaidere MEP, European Parliament’s lead negotiator for the International Trade committee.

The deal introduces an exemption from prior authorisation for gas imports, tighter monitoring (including on shadow fleets), and effective, harmonised maximum penalties. New contracts for Russian energy will be prohibited from the beginning of 2026.

"Phasing out Russian gas is a matter of security, sovereignty, and shared European values. Europe is taking a deliberate and responsible step to end this dependency in a way that strengthens our energy resilience and maintains affordability for families and industry. To ensure the phase-out is effective, the agreement provides for strict origin and ownership checks as well as enhanced monitoring to close indirect routes and loopholes. At the same time, we have designed the framework to remain operational for alternative suppliers by limiting administrative burdens and keeping procedures proportionate. This approach reinforces Europe’s strategic interests and demonstrates our determination to stand by the Ukrainian people,“ adds Andrea Wechsler MEP, EPP Group negotiator for the Industry, Research and Energy committee.