EU Progresses Plan Allowing Members to Ban Russian LNG, Pipeline Gas Imports

European Union (EU) member countries may be allowed to ban natural gas pipeline and LNG imports from Russia and Belarus in the near future, potentially increasing tensions with some of the bloc’s largest importers of the super-chilled fuel.

A proposed resolution endorsed on Friday by the European Parliament and the EU Council would give member states the authority to restrict gas and liquified natural gas imports by preventing Russia and Belarus exporters from bidding on import capacity and infrastructure for delivery.

Europe continues to rely on Russia LNG imports for about 10-12% of its gas while pipeline imports have continued to fall below last year’s record lows. Only a few countries including Hungary and Austria continue to rely on pipeline imports from Russia.

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