Russian gas: a necessary break with the past for a greener, more sovereign Europe
By Yvan Verougstraete, MEP and Vice-Chairman of the European Parliament's Energy Committee.
In the next few hours or days, the European Commission is set to publish a legislative proposal for a total ban on Russian gas imports by 2027. “I am in favor of a coordinated and ambitious ban on Russian gas imports. I call for a rapid, structured and fair implementation between Member States”, explains Yvan Verougstraete, MEP and Vice-Chairman of the European Parliament’s Energy Committee.
“This step must mark a strategic advance for Europe. Breaking away from Russian gas is not just a geopolitical response: it is a gas pedal for our energy transition and a pillar of our strategic autonomy”, he adds.
Clear support for a total ban by 2027
The MEP supports the phasing-out option, which sets a clear deadline – the end of 2027 – for ending all imports of Russian gas, whether delivered by pipeline or LNG tanker. In his view, this approach has the merit of sending a strong political message, enhancing predictability for markets and accelerating investment in renewable energies and alternative infrastructure.
“Just as soaring Russian gas prices forced Europe to accelerate its green transition, this structured ban will help consolidate a more sustainable energy model. Our climate agenda is also an economic and geopolitical agenda,” insists Yvan Verougstraete.
A transition to be organized, without compromising the objective
The MEP acknowledges that some highly dependent Member States – notably in Central Europe – will need to benefit from support and, if necessary, temporary derogations. However, these adjustments must not dilute the overall objective, nor indefinitely prolong a dependency that is incompatible with the Union’s values and interests.
The Commission should also propose a legal route, be it a flexible quota system, or an outright ban requiring the unanimous agreement of the Member States.
“The choice of mechanism must not become an alibi for delaying the deadline. If unanimity proves out of reach, we will have to explore every possible legal basis for moving forward by qualified majority”, warns MEP Verougstraete.
Energy security: strengthen partnerships, not dependencies
Conclusion
For Yvan Verougstraete, the Commission’s proposal represents a decisive but long-awaited step. “It is imperative to show political courage. Exiting from Russian gas means breaking with past ambiguities. It means choosing a more prosperous, freer and greener Europe.
