EU Accelerates Ban on Russian LNG Imports Amid US Pressure

The European Union is set to accelerate its ban on Russian LNG imports a year earlier than initially planned, aiming for a January 1, 2027 deadline. This decision is part of the EU's 19th sanctions package against Moscow, driven by increased pressure from US President Donald Trump. The European Commission will present this proposal to EU envoys as the bloc seeks stronger measures against Russia.

The upcoming sanctions extend beyond LNG, targeting Russia's shadow tanker fleet, cryptocurrency operations, banks in Russia and Central Asia, Chinese refineries, and economic zones. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that EU initiatives would not influence Russia's stance. The EU's expedited plan to withdraw from Russian energy is unlikely to alter Russia's position.

President Trump advocates for Europe to take a more assertive role in the conflict with Russia over Ukraine, encouraging a reduction in energy-dependent ties that support Russia's war economy. This could lead EU countries to rely more on US LNG supplies, increasing energy dependence on the US, which could leverage trade tariffs as a tool.