Germany Rejects Russian LNG Shipment Amid Gas Policy Shift

Germany has refused to allow a Russian LNG shipment at the Brunsbuttel terminal in northern Germany, in accordance with Berlin’s policy of not importing LNG from Russia. The decision came after the Deutsche Energy Terminal informed the economy ministry BMWK that a Russian cargo was scheduled to arrive at the facility on Sunday. This move is seen as a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Germany opting to rely on LNG from the United States and other sources, as well as pipeline gas from Norway, to replace Russian gas.

Despite Germany’s stance against importing Russian gas, some Russian gas is still indirectly reaching the country through other EU nations. Last year, Germany imported nearly half of its gas via pipelines from Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. The country has committed to ensuring that no Russian LNG is imported, with German companies involved in LNG trade pledging to avoid purchasing Russian LNG on the market.

The refusal to accept the Russian LNG shipment at the Brunsbuttel terminal is part of Germany’s broader strategy to reduce its reliance on Russian gas. The country has never directly imported Russian LNG and has ceased buying Russian pipeline gas. While Germany has turned to alternative sources for gas, such as LNG from the United States, the issue of indirect Russian gas imports through other EU countries remains a challenge that requires ongoing monitoring and management.

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