Pakistan, Jan. 26 -- The European Union has given final approval to ban Russian gas imports, enforcing a legally binding plan to cut ties with Moscow by the end of 2027. Ministers approved the law during a meeting in Brussels, despite opposition from Hungary and Slovakia, with Bulgaria abstaining from the vote.

Hungary has announced plans to challenge the ban at the European Court of Justice, citing its heavy reliance on Russian energy and ongoing economic ties with Moscow. The law, however, passed with a reinforced majority, allowing the EU to move forward with its phase-out strategy.

Under the agreement, Russian liquefied natural gas will be halted by the end of 2026, while pipeline gas imports must cease by September 30, 2027. The de...