Why did EU imports of Russian Yamal LNG hit a record 9.97 million tonnes in the first half of 2026, despite efforts to reduce dependence on Russian energy?

According to the news, EU imports of Russian Yamal LNG reached a record 9.97 million tonnes in H1 2026 — valued at €5.96 billion and up 16% year-on-year — because European buyers engaged in advance stockpiling ahead of the EU’s Russia-related energy restrictions entering into force, specifically the LNG import ban under the REPowerEU Gas Regulation that took effect on 25 April 2026.

What are the key exemptions and timelines allowing continued Russian gas imports into the EU after the April 2026 LNG ban?

The REPowerEU Gas Regulation includes exemptions permitting continued Russian gas imports: short-term LNG contracts allow imports until 1 January 2027, while pipeline gas imports under existing short-term contracts were permitted until 17 June 2026, and long-term pipeline gas contracts remain legally permissible until 30 September 2027.

Kpler: EU Imports of Russian Yamal LNG Hit Record

Jul 17, 2026

EU imports of Russian Yamal LNG reached a record 9.97 million tons in H1 2026, valued at €5.96 billion. Regulatory exemptions allow continued purchases until 2027 amid Middle East supply constraints and regional pipeline developments.

ccin

2026-07-17

Kpler: EU Imports of Russian Yamal LNG Hit Record

Kpler: EU Imports of Russian Yamal LNG Hit Record

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