Belgium's Rush to Russian Gas Amid Middle East Disruptions

Belgium has become entirely reliant on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, importing approximately 0.4 million tons exclusively from Russia in July.

This reliance is due to severe disruptions in alternative supply routes caused by the war in the Middle East.

Total LNG shipments to Belgium dropped by more than 40% in July compared to the previous year, according to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg.

The sudden increase in Russian energy imports complicates broader policy goals within the European Union, which has prohibited short-term Russian LNG deals since April ahead of a full ban slated for next year.