13.02.2025, Moscow.
Russia will use alternative LNG export routes to bypass European ports once the EU ban takes effect in March, stated Artem Studennikov, Director of the First European Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry, in an interview published by RIA Novosti on February 13.
Studennikov explained how Russia will respond to the EU’s sanctions on re-exporting Russian LNG through European ports, which are set to begin in March. According to him, there will be no issues delivering LNG to consumers outside the EU.
“We will use alternative routes. We do not have a shortage of partners willing to buy our LNG,” he stated.
The diplomat outlined how LNG exports operated before the ban. One of the main buyers was Asia-Pacific countries, which received LNG via re-export through EU ports.
Studennikov specifically mentioned the Zeebrugge terminal, operated by Belgian gas transport company Fluxys, which handled most of the re-exported Russian LNG. The contract generated around €50 million in annual revenue for the company.
“We will act based on our contractual obligations and considering the specific decisions of energy market participants,” he emphasized.
The EU ban on transshipment services for Russian LNG in EU territory for re-export to third countries is part of the 14th sanctions package, which was adopted in June 2023.
