U.S. LNG exports to EU hit two‑year low, jeopardizing $750 bn trade pledge

In June, the European Union purchased less than half of all U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, the lowest share in two years. Asian buyers offered higher prices, pulling significant volumes of U.S. LNG away from Europe.

The drop comes as the EU seeks to meet a $750 billion energy‑purchase commitment made under the July trade agreement with the United States. The bloc now faces the lowest natural‑gas storage levels in 15 years ahead of winter, raising concerns about energy security. EU members are reluctant to lock in long‑term contracts with American suppliers, fearing dependence on a single external source, a concern that mirrors earlier worries about Russian gas.

Analysts note that without long‑term agreements, European buyers must compete on the spot market where Asian demand and pricing power remain strong, putting the EU’s ability to honour its trade pledge under scrutiny.