US threatens to divert LNG supplies over EU methane regulation dispute

The United States has warned the European Union that it may reroute U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) to other markets if the EU does not ease the new methane‑emissions rules applying to foreign fuel exporters. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told Bloomberg that without “significant reform” the rules would cause “serious pain” for Europe, and the U.S. ambassador to the EU, Andrew Puzder, echoed the call for a temporary suspension of the requirements that are set to take effect on 1 January 2027.

At the same time, EU energy ministers are meeting in Luxembourg to discuss the methane regulation. Twelve member states, led by the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and the United States are pressing for a three‑year delay, arguing that immediate enforcement could jeopardise energy security and supply diversification. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen defended the rule as a key climate tool, saying the EU will safeguard its implementation while listening to all contributions.

The standoff places the transatlantic energy relationship under strain, with European gas‑importing countries such as Spain, which relies heavily on U.S. LNG, potentially facing higher spot‑market prices if shipments are redirected.