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EU's €7.2 Billion Russian LNG Imports Fuel Ukraine Conflict

1/8/2026

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Summary

EU Imports Russian LNG

In 2025, the European Union imported €7.2 billion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia's Yamal LNG, accounting for 76.1% of its exports.
Despite the pledge to ban Russian LNG by 2027, imports remain high, and France is the largest importer.
Urgewald, an environmental NGO, warns that each cargo fuels Russia's war effort in Ukraine.
Activists urge the EU to close loopholes and halt support for Russia's energy profits.

Summary

UK Bans Russian LNG

In January 2026, the United Kingdom announced a phased ban on maritime services for Russian LNG, to begin in 2026.
The move follows concerns about Russian FSB infiltration of crew members.
The European Union has not imposed similar restrictions, delaying its LNG import ban until January 2027.
U.S. President Donald Trump pressured the European Union to expedite its ban by one year.

History

Historical Context

The European Union's energy crisis intensified after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which disrupted gas supplies that previously accounted for 40% of EU imports. In response, the EU aimed to reduce Russian gas imports by two-thirds within a year and planned a complete phase-out by 2027, highlighting the urgent need for energy diversification and security reforms amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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EU Imports Russian LNG

In 2025, the European Union imported €7.2 billion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia's Yamal LNG, accounting for 76.1% of its exports.
Despite the pledge to ban Russian LNG by 2027, imports remain high, and France is the largest importer.
Urgewald, an environmental NGO, warns that each cargo fuels Russia's war effort in Ukraine.
Activists urge the EU to close loopholes and halt support for Russia's energy profits.

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