EU Increases Russian LNG Imports to 97% of Yamal Output Amid Middle East Supply Squeeze

The European Union absorbed 97% of Russia's Yamal LNG output in Q1 2026, as benchmark prices eased following a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. To further secure energy supplies, the EU is now preparing to loosen methane emission rules on oil and gas imports. These new regulatory flexibilities will allow importers to comply without tracing emissions data to individual cargoes, relying instead on the national production standards of exporting countries. While the European Commission warns that energy prices will remain elevated, the move aligns with calls from Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi to reconsider strict import bans. Analysts suggest that easing these environmental mandates highlights the bloc's shift toward prioritizing supply security over climate stringency amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.