Belgium relied entirely on Russian LNG in July 2026 despite EU sanctions

In July 2026 Belgium imported roughly 0.4 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia, accounting for 100 % of its LNG supply. The reliance resulted from shipping disruptions in the Middle East, especially the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which limited alternative supplies.

Across the European Union, imports of Russian LNG reached a record 9.89 million tonnes in the first half of 2026 – an 18 % increase year‑on‑year – despite a policy to phase out Russian LNG by 2027 and a ban on new short‑term contracts that took effect in April. The EU’s 21st sanctions package contains exemptions that allow European firms to continue transporting Russian LNG to third‑country markets, after pressure from member states such as Greece.

EU spending on Russian LNG rose 16 % to €5.96 billion in the first half of 2026, with Belgium, France and Spain among the biggest buyers. Overall EU LNG imports fell more than 40 % year‑on‑year in July, but the share of Russian LNG grew as countries sought substitutes for Middle‑East supplies. The EU maintains its plan for a full ban on Russian LNG starting in 2027, but the July data show continued dependence in the short term.