Russian LNG Exports Increase 8.9 Percent in First Quarter
Russian LNG exports rose 8.9 percent to 8.6 million tons in the first quarter. Shipments to Europe grew 17 percent despite efforts to redirect energy supplies.
Russia recorded a significant increase in liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports during the first quarter of 2026, with a notable surge in shipments directed toward Europe. Despite ongoing efforts by Moscow to pivot its energy supplies toward other markets, preliminary data from LSEG indicates that total LNG exports reached 8.6 million metric tons, representing an 8.9% rise compared to the previous year.
The growth in export volumes occurred despite the presence of sanctions from the United States aimed at the Russian energy sector. These measures have specifically targeted projects like the Arctic LNG 2 plant, which has faced challenges in securing long-term buyers. Nevertheless, the facility contributed approximately 800,000 tons to the total export volume during the first three months of the year.
