The European Union has included a ban on the import of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) in its 19th package of sanctions. However, the EU remains the largest buyer of LNG from Russia, as confirmed by data from the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (Crea), cited by The Guardian.
The ban will take effect for short-term contracts from April 25, 2026, and for long-term contracts from January 1, 2027. According to Crea analysts, the EU accounts for about 50% of total Russian LNG exports. China is in second place (22%), and Japan is in third place (18%).
From February 2022 to September 2025, the European Union purchased LNG from Russia for 42 billion euros. In addition, the bloc is considered the largest buyer of Russian pipeline gas. The EU accounts for 35% of gas supplies, followed by China (30%) and Turkey (29%).
US Sanctions Against the Russian Energy Sector
On October 23, the US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Rosneft, LUKOIL, and some of their structures. These companies extract more than 50% of the total oil volume in Russia. Washington hopes that this will affect the purchases of Russian hydrocarbons by companies from China and India.
From January to September 2025, 86% of Russian crude oil exports, including pipeline supplies, went to China and India. If Moscow loses access to these markets, its revenue will decrease by $7.4 billion per month. This is approximately $3.6 billion in tax revenue per month.
The US leadership plans to squeeze Russia out of the EU energy market in order to increase its own supplies. Moreover, Washington expects to reduce Moscow's share in the South Asian market.
The consequences of Trump's energy war against Russia are still unclear. Industry observers warn that much will depend on the severity of the sanctions and the reaction of those countries that are still dependent on Russian energy resources.
Kremlin's Reaction to New Western Sanctions
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the US sanctions have political and economic aspects. From a political point of view, Washington is trying to put pressure on Moscow. But "no self-respecting country makes decisions under pressure", he emphasized.
Our energy sector feels quite confident. Although there will certainly be some losses.
The head of state recalled Russia's significant contribution to the global energy balance. According to him, it takes time and large investments to replace Russian energy resources, including oil and gas.
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