Ukraine has received its second shipment of liquefied natural gas from the United States, reinforcing its commitment to reducing reliance on Russian fossil fuels. According to the Financial Times, the shipment was procured by DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy company, and transported via the Mediterranean Sea. It arrived at an LNG terminal in Greece on March 7.
DTEK CEO Maxim Timchenko highlighted the strategic importance of these deliveries, stating that shipments like this provide Ukraine with a flexible and secure energy source while also weakening Russia’s influence on the country’s energy system.
The United States currently supplies about 40 percent of Europe’s LNG imports. However, this shipment was directly purchased by Ukraine. Its arrival comes just days before the expiration of a five-year transit agreement that allows Russian gas to flow through Ukraine’s pipeline network. Despite Europe’s efforts to diversify its energy supply, this pipeline still delivers about five percent of the European Union’s total gas needs.
The situation is further complicated by geopolitical uncertainties, particularly with the potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. Trump has previously expressed skepticism about military aid to Ukraine and has warned European nations of possible tariffs if they do not increase purchases of U.S. oil and gas.
DTEK acquired approximately 100 million cubic meters of natural gas in this latest transaction. According to data from Greece’s National Gas System Operator, around 10 percent of the cargo will remain in Ukraine, while the remainder will be sold to Greek companies. Independent gas analyst Tom Marzek-Manser emphasized the significance of this development, noting that if Russia halts gas transit through Ukraine starting January 1, these LNG shipments will play a crucial role in ensuring regional energy security.
The arrival of the U.S. LNG shipment also coincides with intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. A recent assault on Christmas Day left over 500,000 citizens without electricity, heating, or water.
The deal between DTEK and U.S.-based Venture Global was originally signed in June, with LNG purchases set to continue until the end of 2026. Additionally, a separate 20-year agreement has been established for ongoing LNG supply. Venture Global, a major player in the U.S. LNG sector, recently filed for an initial public offering, aiming to raise between three billion and four billion dollars, which would be one of the largest capital raises in the history of the American energy industry.
