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Japan Defies US, Maintains Critical Russian LNG Imports

10/23/2025

46 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Japan's Trade Minister Yoji Muto says Russia LNG imports are critical to energy security, accounting for about 10% of total imports.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Japan to cease these imports amid the Ukraine conflict, but Japan will not fully comply, while Sakhalin-2 contracts extend to 2033 and remain vital.
He notes ongoing efforts to reduce Russian energy reliance, but immediate cessation would raise electricity costs.

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Story summary

Japan's Trade Minister Yoji Muto says Russia LNG imports are critical to energy security, accounting for about 10% of total imports.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Japan to cease these imports amid the Ukraine conflict, but Japan will not fully comply, while Sakhalin-2 contracts extend to 2033 and remain vital.
He notes ongoing efforts to reduce Russian energy reliance, but immediate cessation would raise electricity costs.