Weaned off Putin's gas, Europe now addicted to US LNG

Deutsche Welle

February 20, 2026

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Europe's rapid shift away from Russian gas has created a new reliance on US liquefied natural gas (LNG), raising concerns about energy security and the continent's ability to diversify its supplies. Once heavily dependent on Russia for 50% of its gas, Europe slashed imports by two-thirds within three years after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, this move has been replaced by an unhealthy dependence on US LNG, which now accounts for nearly 60% of EU imports and is projected to rise to 80% by 2030. This shift, while reducing reliance on Russia, risks creating a new vulnerability tied to American energy supplies. The US has emerged as the dominant global LNG supplier, largely due to its vast reserves and increased exports since 2016. Europe's growing dependence on US gas is driven by both geopolitical considerations and economic necessity, with new terminals and pipelines like Greece's "Vertical Gas Corridor" facilitating the flow of LNG from the Atlantic to central and eastern Europe. However, this reliance comes at a cost: US LNG is among the most expensive for EU buyers, and long-term contracts signed with US suppliers like Venture Global and Atlantic-See LNG lock Europe into high-priced energy deals. Analysts warn that overreliance on American gas contradicts Europe's goals of diversification and transitioning to cleaner energy. The EU's planned 2027 ban on Russian gas imports will further increase demand for US LNG, potentially creating a new form of dependency. While the US-EU trade deal signed in 2025 commits Europe to buying $750 billion annually in American energy by 2028, this could undermine efforts to achieve true energy independence and security. Experts caution that replacing Russian dominance with American exports does not address the need for a more diversified supply chain. The situation highlights the delicate balance Europe faces in balancing short-term geopolitical needs with long-term energy goals. While reducing dependence on Russia is a critical step toward energy security, it risks creating a new vulnerability tied to US gas supplies. As Europe transitions away from fossil fuels, its growing reliance on LNG raises questions about whether it can truly achieve the diversification and cost reduction outlined in its REPowerEU plan.

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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/20/2026