**Ukraine Receives First Shipment of US Liquefied Natural Gas**
On December 27, Ukraine received its first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States. The LNG was delivered via an LNG terminal in Greece and contains approximately 100 million cubic meters of natural gas.
“This is not just a cargo – it is a strategic step,” said Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office. “Despite Russia‘s attempts to destroy our energy system during the war, we have won another victory on the energy front.”
The shipment was accepted by DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy company, which signed a deal with US firm Venture Global in June for LNG supplies.
**LNG Will Be Re-Gasified and Exchanged Throughout EU and Ukrainian Gas Networks**
DTEK expects to receive similar shipments of LNG from the US in the future. The LNG will be re-gasified and exchanged throughout EU and Ukrainian gas networks, providing a reliable energy supply to Ukraine and Europe.
“The arrival of this LNG cargo is a clear signal of DTEK’s determination to play its part in strengthening Ukraine and Europe’s energy security,” said Maksym Timchenko, CEO of DTEK.
**Arrival of US LNG Shipment Comes Amid EU-Russia Gas Dispute**
The arrival of the first US LNG shipment comes just days before a deal to transit Russian gas to EU countries via Ukraine is set to expire. The EU imposed its first major restrictions on Russian gas, including LNG, in June. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has suggested replacing Russian LNG supplies with exports from the US.
**Russia’s Energy Giant Gazprom Responds to Ukraine’s LNG Shipment**
Russia’s energy giant Gazprom claimed that the decision was related to Moldova’s outstanding debt, not problems with transit via Ukraine. However, Ukrainian officials say the move is a strategic step in reducing dependence on Russian gas and strengthening energy security.