Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated last week that he has discussed with domestic energy companies the possibility of redirecting liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments destined for Europe to other markets. This consideration comes in light of previous statements from President Vladimir Putin, indicating that Russia may stop gas supplies to Europe amid a sharp rise in energy prices spurred by the crisis in Iran. This strategy serves to preemptively undermine the European Union's plans to halt Russian LNG imports by the end of 2026 and gas imports through pipelines by September 30, 2027.

Novak elaborated that Russian companies are actively evaluating opportunities to redirect gas shipments to the Asian and Pacific markets, and negotiations for new long-term contracts are already underway. He emphasized that these companies are taking proactive steps to establish agreements with