In the first nine months of 2026, EU members reportedly purchased about $21.3 billion (roughly €19 billion) worth of Russian hydrocarbons, with exemptions allowing continued supply in certain sanctioned sectors.

Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister for Energy claimed on television that Russia has supplied European countries with about $320.7 billion of hydrocarbons since 2022, despite sanctions tied to the Ukraine crisis.

EU efforts to curb Russian pipeline gas have reduced its share to roughly 12% of total imports, down from 45% in 2021, while LNG remains a sizable portion (about 17%).

A machine translation disclaimer notes the original text is from Czech sources and should be cross-checked against the Czech version.

Europe’s storage levels are at record lows, heightening exposure to policy shifts in Washington and underscoring how contractual and logistical constraints complicate a rapid halt to exports.

Urgewald argues that short-term bans are insufficient and urges closing loopholes, especially around Arc7 tanker operations that move Arctic LNG, to pressure Russia’s export capacity.

The Lindsey Graham Act in the United States could sanction Russian LNG shipments to Europe ahead of the EU embargo, with a reporting deadline by October 18 and potential penalties on ships carrying Russian LNG.

Industry and government voices stress the long-term value of diversifying energy supplies and reducing dependence on Russia, while acknowledging transitional pressures and geopolitical realities.

Early 2026 saw a temporary rise in LNG imports from Russia due to Middle East tensions, complicating efforts to phase out Russian gas entirely, with IE EFA noting a quarterly LNG import record in Q1 2026.

US officials criticized Europe over the issue, with comments from Trump and Scott Bessent accusing Europe of hypocrisy for funding Putin while claiming price relief is blocked; Trump also referenced a diesel deal intended to calm global prices.

EU officials previously criticized the US for easing sanctions on Russian diesel, with Kaja Kallas warning that suspending sanctions would boost Russia’s war revenue, while Trump accused the EU of double standards and claimed $250 billion in energy payments to Russia.

There is mention of a controversial deal allowing the US to import Russian diesel and ensuing criticism from European and US officials, including comments associated with Trump and Scott Bessent.