EU Proposes Accelerated Ban on Russian LNG Imports Amid New Sanctions

The European Commission has proposed advancing the ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports to January 1, 2027, as part of its 19th sanctions package against Russia. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need to cut off revenues sustaining Russia's war economy, stating, "It is time to turn off the tap."

The proposed sanctions also target Russia's "shadow fleet" of oil tankers and major energy companies, including Rosneft and Gazprom Neft. These measures require unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states to take effect.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted the bloc's aim to expedite the phase-out of Russian LNG, stating, "Our aim is to speed up the phase-out of Russian liquefied natural gas by 1 Jan 2027."

The EU has previously adopted 18 sanction packages against Moscow, targeting over 2,500 entities, including banks, ministries, energy companies, and officials.

In a related development, the UK announced sanctions against two Georgian businessmen and two tankers carrying Russian oil, citing their support for Russia's war in Ukraine. The UK foreign ministry stated, "The UK has announced new sanctions targeting Georgia-linked supporters of Putin's illegal war in Ukraine."