Ukraine to Secure US LNG through Greece Amid Ongoing Energy Crisis

Mon Nov 17 2025 16:58:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following a recent deal, Ukraine prepares to import US liquefied natural gas via Greece, aiming to bolster energy supplies this winter as the conflict with Russia escalates.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a new agreement with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens to begin imports of US liquefied natural gas (LNG) this winter. This move is part of a broader strategy to replace Russian energy supplies, with imports set to start in January. The European Commission has initiated a ban on Russian gas imports by 2027, heightening the urgency for Ukraine to secure alternative energy sources. As winter approaches, the UN warns of rising risks to civilian energy access in the midst of continued Russian military aggression.

Vital supplies of US liquefied natural gas are due to start flowing into war-ravaged Ukraine this winter via a pipeline across the Balkans.

The deal was announced after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens on Sunday. Greece is working to increase the flow of American LNG to its terminals to replace Russian gas in the region, Mitsotakis said recently.

The European Commission plans to ban all imports of Russian gas to EU member states by the end of 2027, arguing revenue from such sales funds Russia's war in Ukraine.

Zelensky is currently in France, where he and President Emmanuel Macron signed a letter of intent to buy up to 100 Rafale jets.

Fighting has reportedly intensified in Ukraine, with six casualties reported from Russian attacks in Kharkiv, Kherson, and Donetsk regions. Russia's military claims control of additional Ukrainian villages.

In Athens, Zelensky stated that deliveries of US LNG would begin in January, emphasizing the importance of such imports amidst the ongoing destruction of Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Mitsotakis emphasized Greece's role as a provider of energy security for Ukraine.

Zelensky confirmed that nearly €2bn in funding has been allocated for gas imports, with ongoing collaborations with European partners and banks under European Commission guarantees.

This new LNG flow will utilize the Trans-Balkan pipeline, established since 2015 when Ukraine ceased direct purchases from Russia. As winter looms, energy stability remains a critical concern for Ukraine amidst persistent attacks on its energy infrastructure.

The UN has warned that the approaching winter poses significant risks to civilians in Ukraine as attacks on energy networks hinder efforts to maintain warmth in homes and vital services.