The European Union paid around €7.88 billion for Russian liquefied natural gas from the Arctic during the first nine months of 2026, despite its efforts to reduce energy dependence on Moscow. According to data cited by Urgewald, EU ports received a record 12.18 million tonnes of Russian LNG between January and September.
In addition, imports from Russia’s Yamal LNG project increased by 9.5% compared with the same period last year. EU ports received about 85% of Yamal’s recorded exports, with France taking the largest share in September. The Netherlands and Portugal also received significant volumes.
The figures highlight the difficulty of ending Russian energy imports before the EU’s full LNG ban takes effect in 2027. However, restrictions on short-term contracts are already in place, and Brussels has prohibited new energy contracts with Russia.
The continued trade has raised political concerns because energy revenues can support Russia while the war in Ukraine continues. Meanwhile, Urgewald has called on the EU to strengthen its next sanctions package and close loopholes involving specialized Arc7 LNG tankers used to transport gas from the Arctic.
The United States could also increase pressure on the trade through new sanctions powers. Overall, the situation shows the tension between Europe’s energy security needs and its political goal of reducing financial ties with Russia.
Reference
Euronews. (2026, October 9). EU paid €7.9bn for Russian Arctic LNG amid record imports. Euronews.
https://www.euronews.com/2026/10/09/eu-paid-79bn-for-russian-arctic-lng-amid-record-imports