The European Union has approved a sweeping regulation to completely phase out all Russian gas imports by the end of 2027, marking a decisive break from Moscow’s long-standing energy dominance. The plan includes bans on Russian LNG and pipeline gas, strict origin checks, mandatory diversification strategies, and heavy penalties for violations. However, Hungary and Slovakia have vowed to challenge the move in court, warning of soaring energy prices and legal overreach. The decision exposes deep divisions within the EU as it accelerates its energy transition amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and the war in Ukraine.