European Union energy ministers think they'll be able to phase out the import of Russian gas by 2028, and have backed a proposal that would begin the process by phasing out the contracts themselves for both pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) by Jan. 1, 2026. Current agreements may continue until June 17, 2026, while long-term contracts may would be cut off on Jan. 1, 2028. That said, landlocked members states (Hungary, Slovakia) which have limited alternatives to Russia would be afforded some flexibility.