EU's Increasing Reliance on Russian LNG Despite Sanctions

Despite the European Union's pledge to reduce gas imports from Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine, a study by Global Witness reveals that EU purchases of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) have increased by 40% compared to pre-war levels. The EU bought 21.6 million cubic meters (mcm) of Russian LNG between January and July 2023, with China, Spain, Belgium, Japan, and France being the top buyers. The EU's market share of Russian LNG exports reached 52% during this period. The findings raise questions about the bloc's efforts to weaken the Kremlin's war chest, as buying Russian gas indirectly supports the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.