Europe has injected only one-third of the natural gas volumes required for the upcoming winter into its underground storage facilities by the end of June, according to data cited by TASS.
The injection rate for the first half of the summer season has been significantly hampered by a combination of factors, including intense competition with Asian buyers for available liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes, elevated fuel prices, and extreme heat across the continent in June.
The slow fill rate underscores the persistent supply tightness in European energy markets.
With storage levels already at their lowest point in 15 years, the region faces a narrowing window to secure adequate reserves before the heating season begins.
The competition for LNG volumes has intensified as Asian demand remains robust, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that have disrupted traditional supply routes and increased shipping costs.
Extreme weather conditions in June further complicated injection efforts.