The media reported an increase in LNG exports from the United States amid increased demand in Europe

Exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States increased by more than 20% in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2024 due to increased purchases by European countries. This was reported by Reuters on May 1, citing data from Kpler.

The total volume of American LNG shipments to Europe from January to April amounted to 34.6 million tons, which is the highest figure in history. European countries accounted for 26.5 million tons, or 77% of the total supply.

The agency noted that the increase in purchases in the EU may indicate that European consumers are trying to "appease" US President Donald Trump and soften his trade policy, the material says. Europe's relatively low gas reserves, which are currently about 33% below last year's levels, have also increased demand for LNG.

Lots more gas: Philippines and Thailand are interested in purchasing Russian LNG

The parties have already negotiated supplies and intend to strengthen energy cooperation.

On April 17, the EU decided to postpone the ban on the import of Russian LNG. The decision was made due to the resistance of some governments and uncertainty about alternative sources, representatives of the association said.

Prior to that, on March 17, Igor Yushkov, an expert and lecturer at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, in an interview with Izvestia, predicted an increase in gas prices in Europe in the event of abandonment of Russian LNG. According to him, in order to replace Russian gas, Europe will have to reorient supplies from Qatar, which is currently sending its fuel to Asia.