The European sector has actually relied on liquefied gas from the USA from 2022, raising concerns about new risks despite the improvement in stability.
Transitioning From Russian Liquefied Natural Gas Imports to US LNG
The energy structure of Europe shifted following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia as of February 24, 2022.
Europe reduced its use of gas delivered through pipelines from Russia, which had previously covered a significant portion of its requirements.
The result caused a rise in EU LNG imports sourced from the USA, which increased to 59.9% of total LNG imports in the third quarter of 2025 from 40.8% a year earlier, making the USA the foremost supplier, followed by Russia at 12.7%.
Records for the U.S. LNG exports were set in 2025, with more than 100 million tonnes of gas exported in a given year, with 60% of the gas being delivered to the European market in strategic periods.
Energy Security and Emerging Dependencies
Supplies from the U.S. have reinforced the energy security of Europe, but experts specifically warn of possible risks if there is overdependence.
LNG causes price volatility for buyers due to world prices, with 55% of EU purchases coming from the U.S. during the first half of 2025, as cited by an IEEFA analysis.
The spot price raises prices for industries in Europe compared to US prices.
This configuration reflects the past pattern of Russian reliance, when the American share approached 60% in the third quarter of 2025.
Geopolitical and Trade Vulnerabilities
Changes in politics introduce uncertainty. “There are strong current relationships,” but future US policies may affect exports.
European representatives think that energy could be part of the trade agreement negotiations, as indicated in the German Marshall Fund report on October 21, 2025.
The EU seeks to reduce the risks that come with relying on a “single supplier, even a close partner.”
The Council of the European Union agreement on December 3, 2025, ends Russian gas deliveries, underlining diversity requirements.
Climate Goals at Stake
Natural gas assists coal replacement, but its use as a fossil fuel makes it difficult for the EU to meet its climate goals.
Methane levels associated with shale gas production and transportation within the US remain a concern, as the EU methane law applies as of 2027, making all importers comply.
Environmental organizations call for tougher rules to meet net-zero targets.
Efforts Toward Diversification and Renewables
The EU pursues diversified sources, including pipeline gas from Norway and liquefied natural gas from Algeria-7.7% in Q3 2025-and Qatar.
Active diplomacy supports the Mediterranean gas hub in line with European Commission plans.
Renewables investments accelerate, with €5.2 billion from EU emissions trading allocated on December 3, 2025, for clean tech, including €2.9 billion for hydrogen.
The bloc targets €240 billion for hydrogen networks by 2040, supporting grid upgrades and storage.
Balancing Act Ahead
U.S. natural gas can play the role of a bridge, but Europe has to start acting seriously on reducing its reliance on fossil fuels if it really wants to be resilient.
Ongoing strategies since January 2026 are meant to minimize the risks related to energy security and climatic requirements.
