The Finnish government is preparing to ban imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) into the country starting next year. Helsinki does not plan to wait until it falls under the relevant sanctions of the European Union. This is reported by the Helsingin Sanomat.


According to Finnish Minister of Climate and Environment Kai Mykkänen, the goal is for the ban to come into force in 2025.


"I don't want to promise any specific date, but I hope that next year we will be in a situation where the ban will be in effect," he said in a conversation with journalists.


The decision is expected to come into force in the spring, after which the Finnish government may present its proposals to limit gas imports. Mykkänen emphasized the importance of careful drafting.


According to the text of the decree, Finland is obliged to consult with the European Commission and take into account possible resentment from neighboring countries. The ban can only be imposed for a limited period.