The European Commission proposed on Tuesday that the EU gradually stop importing Russian gas and oil by the end of 2027. Most member states are expected to approve it, but Hungary and Slovakia are opposed.
According to the proposal, the EU will adopt a stepwise phase-out of pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) originating in or exported directly or indirectly from Russia. It also requires a complete stop of Russian oil imports by the end of 2027.
The proposal also prohibits Russian gas imports under new contracts as of January 1, 2026. Imports under existing long-term contracts will concluded by the end of 2027.
The proposed regulation will follow the co-decision legislative process, according to the European Commission; it is estimated that the ban will be supported by the majority of the EU member states and will be officially taken into effect.
Meanwhile, some of the EU member states expressed clear opposition. Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Peter Szijjarto stated on Monday that energy policy is part of national sovereignty, and the proposed plan threatens Hungarian sovereignty and energy security.
A Slovakian spokesperson from the Permanent Representation of Slovakia to the EU also confirmed that the country holds the same position as Hungary.
European Commission proposes ban on import of Russian gas, oil by 2027 end
European Commission proposes ban on import of Russian gas, oil by 2027 end
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
