The countries of the European Union have approved a plan for a complete cessation of imports of Russian gas, which has become a key factor in the exacerbation of the economic crisis in the Russian Federation. According to the adopted decision, imports of liquefied natural gas will be completely halted by the end of 2026, and pipeline gas supplies will be fully terminated by September 30, 2027.
This is reported by Finway
International Isolation and Arbitration Disputes
Alongside these measures, the US and EU have agreed to jointly ensure the protection of Greenland’s natural resources from exploration attempts by Russia and China. This policy is a response to the increasing energy isolation of Russia. The German Foreign Ministry has sharply criticized Moscow for its hardline stance on territorial issues. Uniper, one of Europe’s largest energy players, has turned to international arbitration with a €45 million lawsuit against Gazprom for breach of contractual obligations.
“2025 was the worst year for Russian trade in the last decade: only 173,000 companies were opened, while 233,000 were liquidated, and business activity fell in 60 regions. Sales of children’s goods decreased by 8%, and baby food by 12% due to a 44% increase in prices. More than half a million citizens have officially declared themselves bankrupt.”
Domestic Consequences for Russia: Business Decline and Social Changes
The worsening economic situation in Russia is accompanied by a significant decline in business activity: in 2025, only 173,000 new companies were opened, while 233,000 were liquidated, indicating a massive contraction of business in 60 regions. The consumer market has been particularly affected: sales of children’s goods decreased by 8%, and baby food by 12%, linked to a 44% spike in prices. The number of citizens officially recognized as bankrupt has exceeded 500,000.
Moreover, there has been a sharp increase in the consumption of antidepressants in Russia—by 2.4 times, reaching 22.3 million packages. In the education sector, colleges are limiting enrollment for paid studies in law and economics, directing youth towards vocational professions that are particularly in demand in the industrial and defense sectors.
Meanwhile, Moscow is trying to strengthen control over Belarus, which is currently facing a $1.3 billion external trade deficit and the decline of major cities. In response to NATO threats, plans are being developed to create a so-called “robotized no-man’s land” along the borders with Russia and Belarus to minimize the risks of direct military confrontation.