EU split over methane import rules delays critical vote

The deadlock pits two distinct coalitions against each other. France, Spain, Finland, Denmark, Luxembourg, and Portugal currently align with the European Commission’s push for a single-year delay. Conversely, a group led by Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Greece, and Slovenia insists on a three-year extension.

Belgium remains the wildcard in these negotiations. While the country previously signaled support for a three-year pause, it has since indicated a willingness to accept the Commission’s shorter timeline. However, Belgian officials remain wary of any delay extending beyond three years, fearing that the European Parliament’s proposed 2029 review could inadvertently push the deadline further into the future.