EU set to permit Russian LNG shipments to non‑EU nations for another year

The European Union is preparing an amendment to its 21st sanctions package that would let European companies keep transporting Russian liquefied natural gas to third‑country destinations for a twelve‑month period, with a possible extension. The change awaits approval from the ambassadors of the 27 EU member states at a meeting scheduled for Thursday.

The authorised volume would be capped at 2025 levels. Greece blocked a proposal to ban such shipments, arguing it would hurt the Greek carrier Dynagas. Other members sought exemptions: France and Italy asked for softer visa rules for Russian military personnel, Portugal and Germany wanted eased restrictions on fish imports, and Austria called for the release of €2 billion in frozen Russian assets. Diplomatic sources warned that an increase in exemptions could weaken the overall effectiveness and unity of EU sanctions against Russia.