The EU's draft ban on gas imports from Russia did not include a ban on oil supplies

The European Union (EU) draft on banning gas imports from Russia does not include measures against Russian oil imports, despite the mandate of the European Parliament (EP) for such a step. This is reported by RIA Novosti with reference to the text of the document.

"The European Parliament included a ban on the import of Russian oil in its mandate for negotiations, but this provision was not included in the final text. Instead, the document adds requirements for greater transparency of plans to diversify oil supplies," the document says.

In addition, it is noted that any of the EU countries will have the opportunity not to apply a ban on the import of Russian gas in the event of an emergency declaration.

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On October 20, the EU Council approved the proposal of the European Commission (EC) to ban gas purchases in Russia from January 1, 2028. In addition, the EU has also decided to impose a ban on the transit of Russian gas through the union to other countries. This measure will take effect on January 1, 2026.

On December 3, the EU countries adopted a preliminary agreement to ban the import of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG). In addition, the ban will affect pipeline gas from the Russian Federation. According to the press release, the total ban will come into force by the end of 2026. It was specified that the ban on the import of pipeline gas will take effect in the autumn of 2027.

Leading Analyst at the National Energy Security Fund (NWF) Igor Yushkov said on December 4 that Europe could face major internal conflicts due to the desire of some states to completely abandon Russian energy sources. He recalled that Hungary and Slovakia have traditionally supported energy purchases from Russia, and they will definitely oppose the import ban. Such a step would be extremely unprofitable for other European countries, the analyst added.

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