DTEK, through its trading arm D.TRADING, has delivered its first cargo of U.S.-sourced liquefied natural gas (LNG) via Lithuania. Once re-gasified, volumes will flow to Ukraine, Baltic countries, Poland and other Eastern European markets.
DTEK’s work to increase in supplies of US LNG to CESEE is aimed at strengthening the energy security of Ukraine and neighboring countries.
The cargo – loaded aboard the Gaslog Houston at Plaquemines in Louisiana – was DTEK’s first to be purchased on an FOB (Free on Board) basis. The company was responsible for its chartering and navigation from Louisiana to Lithuania’s Klaipeda terminal.
The Gaslog Houston delivered its 160,000 cubic metre cargo – equivalent to roughly 100 million cubic meters of natural gas or 1 TWh of energy – late on 17th November.
DTEK estimates Ukraine needs to import around 4 billion cubic metres (bcm) this winter following russian attacks on its gas production and storage infrastructure.
The company is in negotiations to import further cargoes of US LNG into Europe – using both this Northern Corridor and the southern Vertical Gas Corridor, which runs from Greece and through Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova and into Ukraine.
Commenting on the delivery, DTEK CEO Maxim Timchenko said:
«US LNG is key for Ukraine’s and Europe’s energy independence. This latest shipment reflects the vision of our shareholder Rinat Akhmetov for DTEK to be an energy bridge uniting US producers and a region that remains too dependent on russian gas. From terminals on the Baltic Sea and Mediterranean, we are working with European and US partners to develop cost-effective routes to get more gas flowing into Ukraine and neighbouring countries.»
Fred H. Hutchison, President & CEO of LNG Allies (The USLNG Association) said:
«The arrival of this U.S. LNG cargo in Lithuania is tangible evidence of America’s unwavering solidarity with Ukraine and our mutual resolve to banish the last molecule of Russian gas from Europe. Together with the active support of the U.S. government, U.S. LNG producers are moving rapidly to increase volumes flowing into Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe. Through expanded public-private cooperation in areas such as financing, infrastructure, and long-term contracts, U.S. LNG will continue to play a decisive role in strengthening Europe’s energy security.»
Minister of Energy Žygimantas Vaičiūnas commented: «After the brutal russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Lithuania was quick to act – a cargo of LNG is already on its way to Ukraine. The Klaipėda LNG terminal is one of the busiest and most utilized in Europe, yet it also provides an opportunity to assist Ukraine – through it, we can help ensure gas supply and energy security for our partners. This is a concrete example of our solidarity and transatlantic cooperation. Together, we are seeking ways to ensure a reliable gas supply to Ukraine during the upcoming winter by making full use of Lithuania’s existing infrastructure.»
DTEK is supporting European Union efforts to phase out russian gas completely by the end of 2027, leveraging its footprint in dozens of countries across the CESEE region. In December 2024, it delivered 100 million cubic metres into the region via the Revithoussa terminal in Greece
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