House Must Act on Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia's Arctic Gas

Russia's Arctic gas project, Yamal, relies on specially designed tankers that can force their way through icy waters. These 14 vessels are crucial for winter exports, and without them, deliveries would almost entirely halt.

Yamal has become a significant player in the global energy market, with European Union ports receiving 136 of its 140 cargoes during the first six months of 2026. Those deliveries totaled 9.97 million tons and had an estimated gross value of €5.96 billion.

The EU's exemption for Russian liquefied natural gas has allowed qualifying European companies to continue operating in the sector, including one that runs five of Yamal's tankers. This exemption expires on July 25, 2027, unless the European Council decides otherwise after an annual review.