France and Belgium Hesitate on EU Plan to End Russian Gas Imports

France and Belgium are delaying endorsement of the European Union’s proposal to phase out Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports by 2027, citing concerns over the economic and legal implications of the move. France, the EU’s largest buyer of Russian LNG, prefers a strategy of diversifying energy supplies, particularly through Qatari sources, rather than outright bans. Belgium, the second-largest importer, has requested a detailed report on the economic fallout before deciding.
This hesitation contrasts with other major EU importers, such as Spain and the Netherlands, which have expressed strong support for the proposed legislation. The EU’s plan aims to end short-term Russian gas purchases this year and eliminate long-term contracts by 2027, allowing countries to escape binding agreements that would otherwise lock them into buying Russian LNG for years.
Despite the growing consensus on reducing energy dependence on Russia, France and Belgium’s reluctance highlights the challenges of balancing energy security with economic stability in the transition away from Russian supplies.

Published: 6/5/2025