Buccino: America’s LNG Arsenal – How natural gas fuels national power and global stability
Retired U.S. Army Colonel Joe Buccino recently published his thoughts in The Washington Times on the importance of natural gas in national security and global stability. The United States is emerging as a global power in liquified natural gas (LNG) exportation, forging stronger alliances, fortifying our national security, and creating a healthy economy.
Under the Trump administration, the Department of Energy has issued five LNG export approvals thus far. This is a stark distinction from the Biden administration, which released a politically motivated LNG export study under the false pretense that domestic prices would rise, further hindering America’s long-term strategic goals and delaying capital-intensive projects.
However, as Buccino notes, the expansion of LNG exports “creat[ed] robust markets for American producers, driving innovation and investment across the entire energy sector. As the industry scales up to meet growing global demand, domestic supplies remain plentiful and prices stable.” Moreover, comprehensive evidence from a 2024 analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies indicates that LNG exports do not harm consumers.
America can meet our allies’ energy needs while maintaining domestic affordability. “Accelerating natural gas production within our borders doesn’t just stabilize prices; it armors America against the unpredictable disruptions that threaten global trade.” Our European allies see American LNG as a lifeline they desperately need. Instead of forcing our allies to seek alternative LNG, Trump’s energy strategy positions America at the forefront of LNG exports.
As the Department of Energy issues more export approvals, including Energy Transfer’s Lake Charles LNG project, which awaits FERC extension approval, American energy security, geopolitical leverage, and foreign policy options will significantly improve.