EU Unveils Roadmap to End Dependence on Russian Energy by 2027

The European Union has outlined its most ambitious plan yet to phase out its long-standing dependence on Russian energy supplies, aiming to end imports of gas, oil, and nuclear fuel from the country by the end of 2027, Bloomberg reports.

The strategy, unveiled by the European Commission on Tuesday, presents a phased roadmap for cutting ties with one of Europe’s former primary energy partners. Prior to the war in Ukraine, Russia provided around 40% of the EU’s natural gas and a third of its oil.

According to the Commission, the plan will begin with a ban on new contracts for Russian energy and a halt to short-term market purchases by the end of 2025. Existing long-term contracts are expected to be gradually wound down and terminated entirely by the close of 2027.

The roadmap comes as part of the EU’s broader effort to diversify its energy mix, expand renewable power sources, and strengthen energy security. The bloc is also looking to deepen energy cooperation with other suppliers, including an increase in liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from the United States.

Some EU countries, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, have expressed concerns about the timeline and the potential economic impact of fully phasing out Russian energy. Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, whose country has relied heavily on energy imports from Russia, warned that the proposed phaseout could drive up energy prices further.

While current gas prices are significantly lower than the peaks seen in 2022, the EU’s energy supply remains tight, especially as member states work to replenish reserves. Officials argue that the planned shift away from Russian energy is unlikely to cause sharp price increases due to a projected rise in global LNG availability.