How the EU is still funding Putin’s war machine with imports of gas (opens original article in a new tab)

EU imports of Russian liquefied natural gas rose in early 2026 despite sanctions, with experts warning the continued flow undermines efforts to isolate Russia economically and sends a symbolic message of European hesitation.

• EU imports of Russian LNG increased by 17.9% between January and May 2026 compared to 2025
• EU bans on short-term LNG contracts have not yet impacted Yamal LNG flows due to a nine-month gap in restrictions
• Experts say continued LNG imports symbolically show Europe's lack of commitment to cutting Russian energy ties
• Long-term LNG import bans will not take effect until 2027, according to agreements from last year