The European Union remains the biggest purchaser of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) nearly four years after Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to data reported by The Guardian and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).
Between February 2022 and September 2025, EU member states accounted for about half of Russia’s total LNG exports, ahead of China, which bought 22 percent, and Japan with 18 percent. The bloc also continues to import the largest share of Russian pipeline gas—around 35 percent—followed by China (30 percent) and Turkey (29 percent).
Among EU countries, Hungary and Slovakia were the leading importers in September, purchasing Russian fossil fuels worth €393 million and €207 million respectively. France, Belgium, and the Netherlands also maintained significant LNG imports, with France alone buying €153 million worth last year—some of which was reportedly re-exported to Germany.
Despite ongoing sanctions and pledges to cut energy ties with Moscow, the EU’s dependence on Russian LNG has persisted. Analysts attribute this to slow infrastructure changes and energy supply challenges across Europe.
Tom Keating, director of the Centre for Financial and Security Studies at the defence think tank RUSI, criticized the delay in ending Russian energy imports. “The EU says it will stop buying Russian LNG by January 2027—but how many Ukrainians will die before then?” he asked, urging faster action from European governments.
The European Union recently approved its 19th sanctions package against Russia, which includes a formal ban on the import of Russian LNG. However, experts warn that the long-term effectiveness of these measures will depend on strict enforcement and how quickly member states can transition to alternative energy sources.
Meanwhile, countries like Germany have ramped up LNG imports from non-Russian suppliers, reaching record levels in October. Still, the bloc’s continued role as Russia’s largest energy customer underscores the challenges of balancing energy security with geopolitical commitments.
