EU Plans Accelerated Ban on Russian Gas Imports Amid US Pressure

The European Union is accelerating its ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports to January 1, 2027, a year earlier than planned, largely influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump's pressure rather than originating from Brussels itself. This move aims to reduce Moscow's revenue amid the Ukraine conflict, although it poses significant challenges for member states like Hungary and Slovakia, which remain dependent on Russian energy and require viable alternatives and infrastructure. While the EU has successfully reduced Russian gas imports from 45 percent in 2022 to around 19 percent currently, tensions persist as Hungary has vowed to veto sanctions that threaten its energy security, and Slovakia insists on sufficient alternative supplies before complying. The EU is also considering new sanctions targeting Russian financial sectors and Chinese companies linked to the war, attempting to align with Trump's broader demands, though these remain contentious within the bloc. Trump’s calls for tougher sanctions including duties on China and India, and complete halts on Russian oil imports, have met resistance and skepticism in Europe, with some viewing his demands as unrealistic or strategic delays. Despite these difficulties, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to end Russian oil and gas imports by 2027, navigating internal division and external pressure in pursuit of energy independence and financial sanctions against Russia.