EU LNG imports from Russia surge 60% in September

Data released by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, headquartered in Finland, indicates that the European Union raised its intake of Russian liquefied natural gas by 60 percent in September 2026 relative to August. This significant uptick occurred despite existing restrictions and Brussels’ ongoing efforts to phase out dependence on Russian energy resources.

In their study, researchers noted that September’s figures represented a recovery from the previous month, when import volumes had hit a record low. The analysis highlights that while the jump was substantial, the overall flow remains constrained by regulatory frameworks currently in place across the bloc.

Financial value and port distribution

According to the center’s data, the total value of Russian liquefied natural gas purchased by EU member states reached 615 million euros during this period. French ports handled nearly three-quarters of the actual supply volumes, with the remaining shipments directed toward facilities in the Netherlands and Portugal.

This distribution pattern underscores the continued reliance on specific entry points within the European network, even as political directives aim to diversify sources. The concentration of volume in France suggests logistical preferences or contractual obligations that favor these terminals over others in the region.

Comparison with pre-2022 levels

Researchers emphasize that despite the sharp rise in September 2026, EU imports of Russian liquefied natural gas remain far below the levels recorded prior to February 2022. The current volumes reflect a partial rebound rather than a return to historical norms, indicating that structural changes in energy procurement are still taking effect.

The increase follows five months after the implementation of an EU ban on short-term contracts for Russian liquefied natural gas. However, supplies governed by previously concluded long-term agreements continue to be permitted until January 2027, allowing certain flows to persist under existing legal frameworks.

Russian perspective on EU policies

Russia has stated that the European Union’s attempts to abandon Russian gas harm established energy ties. Moscow argues that these policy shifts force European nations to purchase alternative supplies at higher costs, challenging the economic rationale behind the decoupling strategy.