Ban on Purchasing Russian Liquefied Natural Gas
Starting April 25, the European Union will prohibit the purchase of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) on the spot market. This move is part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy resources. Gas deliveries under long-term contracts may continue until the end of the year, but from January 1, 2027, all long-term supplies of Russian LNG will cease. According to estimates from analytical firms Wood Mackenzie Ltd. and Energy Aspects Ltd., the spot market ban could cut Russian LNG deliveries by 2.8 to 3.5 million metric tons annually.
Alternative Supply Sources
Currently, the EU meets about 12% of its gas needs through Russia. However, with these new restrictions, member states will need to find alternative supply sources. As energy expert Tom Marzec-Manser noted:
“While no significant risks to blue fuel supplies to the EU are seen yet, member states will have to increase gas imports to fill storage ahead of next winter.” - Tom Marzec-Manser
As a result of the new limitations, several major European energy suppliers, including:
- France’s TotalEnergies SE,
- Spain’s Naturgy Energy Group SA,
- Germany’s SEFE Securing Energy for Europe GmbH
will be forced to terminate contracts for Russian LNG supply next year. According to Energy Aspects, some volumes may be redirected to Turkey and Egypt. Additionally, Russia’s Novatek PJSC has signed a preliminary agreement to supply LNG to Vietnam.
Russia expects China to purchase natural gas at a discount compared to the European market at least until 2029. In March, Spain received 9,807 GWh of Russian gas, more than double the amount from February.
Energy market expert Tom Purdy commented:
“The more significant test will come on January 1, 2027,” when long-term supplies end. In case of a worsening situation, the European Commission may declare a state of emergency and temporarily reinstate permission to buy Russian fuel on the spot market, but the expert does not expect this lever to be used quickly.” - Tom Purdy
The ban on Russian LNG purchases reflects the European Union’s growing determination to reduce its energy dependence on Russia, especially amid the current geopolitical landscape. To secure alternative supplies, EU member states may ramp up cooperation with other regions, such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia, which could reshape global energy markets.
As the EU prepares to implement the ban on Russian LNG, recent reports indicate a notable increase in imports from Russia, with a 17% rise in the first quarter of 2026. This surge raises questions about the future dynamics of energy supply in Europe. To understand more about this trend and its implications for the continent's energy landscape, you can read further on European imports of Russian LNG.