The European Union is preparing to authorize Greek shipping firms to continue transporting Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to third countries, a move that could resolve a standoff over the bloc’s upcoming sanctions package.
According to reports, the agreement would allow companies such as Dynagas to operate for 12 months, with volumes capped at 2024 levels and the possibility of extension.
This concession addresses Greece’s resistance to stricter restrictions on Russian LNG bunkering, which had threatened to delay the finalization of the 21st sanctions round against Moscow.
The development signals a pragmatic shift in Brussels, prioritizing the cohesion of the sanctions regime over a complete embargo on Russian gas flows.
For energy markets, the exemption reduces the risk of immediate supply disruptions in European LNG terminals, where Greek carriers play a significant role in logistics.
The decision also underscores the growing divergence between EU member states on how to balance geopolitical pressure with energy security concerns.