The European Commission’s draft regulation to phase out imports of Russian natural gas applies only to EU member states, leaving countries outside the bloc, such as Serbia, unaffected in terms of their own gas supplies. This means Serbia can continue importing Russian gas for its domestic consumption. However, restrictions would apply if the gas is re-exported to EU countries.
European Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen explained that the regulation does not cover Russian gas shipments destined for non-EU nations. Still, if Russian gas imported by Serbia enters Hungary, the regulation’s provisions would take effect. In that scenario, Hungarian customs authorities would need to verify whether the gas coming from Serbia originated in Russia.
The proposed regulation, announced earlier this week, outlines a plan to ban new contracts for Russian gas imports starting January 1, 2026. Additionally, imports under existing short-term contracts must end by June 17, 2026. To address the specific energy needs of some member states, the proposal allows a longer transition period for pipeline gas deliveries to landlocked countries like Hungary and Slovakia. Imports under existing long-term contracts in these countries would be permitted until the end of 2027, giving them more time to adjust their energy supplies.
