EU bans are accelerating the split: the Kremlin is considering an early exit from the European gas market

President Vladimir Putin said Russia could consider ending gas supplies to Europe earlier than planned if it is economically justified.

Speaking with journalist Pavel Zarubin, he noted that “other markets are opening up,” and that under the current conditions it might be more profitable not to wait for new restrictions but to redirect exports in advance and secure alternative destinations.

Putin stressed, however, that no final decision has been made and that these are “thoughts out loud.” He said he will instruct the government, together with relevant companies, to work through possible scenarios and assess the risks and consequences for the industry and the budget.

The remarks came against the backdrop of the EU’s approved course toward a complete отказ from Russian gas. Under the decision adopted, imports of Russian LNG are to end by the end of 2026, and imports of pipeline gas no later than November 1, 2027. Hungary and Slovakia opposed the move, and Budapest said it intends to challenge the measures in the European Court.

Meanwhile, Russia continues its strategy of diversifying markets. Supplies to Asia are growing, including to China via the Power of Siberia pipeline, and Russia’s share of EU gas imports has fallen significantly in recent years. In essence, the Kremlin is presenting the possibility of an early halt as a pragmatic step: if Europe is going to close its market soon anyway, it is more beneficial for Russia to restructure logistics and export flows in advance, focusing on more predictable partners.