economy
March 24, 2026
European Commission postpones law on Russian oil ban due to Middle East conflict
The European Commission will not submit a legislative proposal for a permanent ban on the import of Russian oil by April 15, as originally planned, according to the European Union's updated legislative program today.
TL;DR
- The European Commission has delayed its legislative proposal for a permanent ban on Russian oil imports.
- The delay is attributed to 'current geopolitical events' and disruptions to global oil supply.
- The proposed ban aims to completely halt EU imports of Russian oil by the end of 2027.
- Recent import figures show a minimal immediate impact, with the EU importing only 1% of oil from Russia in Q4 2025.
- Hungary and Slovakia were the only EU members still importing Russian oil in January.
- Previous supply disruptions include a drone incident impacting a pipeline in Ukraine.
- Hungary and Slovakia have accused Ukraine of delaying oil supply restoration, leading to political disputes.