Germany bans its terminals from receiving Russian LNG - FT

The decision followed reports from Deutsche Energy Terminal on planned Russian gas deliveries to the Brunsbüttel terminal, underscoring the German government's stance on achieving energy independence from Russian gas.

Germany was Europe's largest buyer of Russian gas until 2022, when Russia cut off supplies via pipeline following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since then, Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government has been developing infrastructure for LNG imports by sea to reduce energy dependence on Russia.

At the same time, the EU continues to purchase Russian LNG, with about 20% of its LNG supplies still coming from Russia, according to data from analytics company Kpler. However, Germany has avoided direct imports of Russian LNG since the conflict began, and this new directive from the Ministry further supports this policy. The Ministry is led by Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, known for his firm stance against the Russian government under President Vladimir Putin.

The European Commission has also suggested that the EU replace Russian LNG with increased imports from the United States. Amid pressure from both Washington and London, which have banned Russian LNG, this decision could enhance the EU's energy independence from Moscow.

Russia's shadow fleet

Russia's so-called shadow fleet is an informal network of tankers and other vessels used to transport Russian oil, bypassing international sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine. These ships are often owned by offshore companies, frequently change flags, and turn off transponders to hide their routes and final destinations.

This illegal scheme enables the Kremlin to continue exporting energy resources, generating revenues that may fund its military efforts.

As recently reported, the UK announced its largest package of sanctions against Russia's shadow oil tanker fleet.