The European Commission is preparing a new round of sanctions against Russia that includes a proposal to ban imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by January 1, 2027, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The initiative forms part of the European Union’s 19th sanctions package, aimed at further tightening economic pressure on Moscow as its war in Ukraine continues. In addition to LNG, the proposed measures target Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, as well as financial institutions, cryptocurrency networks, and entities supporting the Russian military-industrial complex.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged all 27 member states to back the plan, emphasizing the need to cut off one of Russia’s remaining energy revenue streams.
“It is time to turn off the tap on Russian LNG,” von der Leyen said in a recent statement. “We must eliminate any loopholes that allow Russian fossil fuels to reach our markets through indirect routes.”
Although the EU has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian pipeline gas since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russian LNG exports have continued to flow into several member states. The proposed 2027 deadline is seen as a compromise, giving countries time to diversify energy supplies and adapt infrastructure.
The sanctions package also expands restrictions on Russian maritime operations, particularly vessels operating under opaque ownership or using outdated safety standards. It further targets companies in third countries believed to be facilitating the transfer of dual-use goods—technologies or products that could serve both civilian and military applications.
The proposal will require unanimous approval from all EU member states. Diplomatic discussions are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
If adopted, the LNG ban would mark one of the EU’s most significant steps yet in decoupling from Russian energy and curbing the Kremlin’s capacity to fund its military campaign in Ukraine.
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