The EU Should Turn to U.S. LNG, Reduce Russian Imports

Belgium’s energy minister, Mathieu Bihet, strongly opposes Russian energy imports, emphasizing that restoring ties with the country would be “illusory.” This comes at a pivotal moment as the European Union (EU) is exploring new avenues for energy security, particularly considering the United States’ trade policy.

Although Bihet does not condone an outright ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), he remains committed to phasing out Belgium’s imports of Russian LNG. Bihet supports a gradual reduction and emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach alongside neighboring countries. The Trump administration’s recent tariffs have opened the door for trade negotiations and for the EU to commit to shifting its imports from Russia to the United States. Any conversations regarding trade deals and tariffs should also include the potential for the U.S. to export LNG to European countries seeking to reduce their dependence on Russian energy.

Belgium is also focused on increasing its nuclear capacity to reduce its reliance on Russian energy. Nicknamed “Atomic Boy,” Bihet wants to scrap Belgium’s atomic power laws, which could potentially double the country’s installed capacity and “attract new industries and reindustrialize our region.”

Belgium’s new energy strategy, as outlined by Bihet, underscores the complexities of navigating multinational energy dynamics.  While the EU seeks new trade opportunities with the U.S.—especially with Trump’s support for increased LNG exports—Belgium remains focused on reducing Russian LNG imports and enhancing its nuclear power capacity. The U.S. can ensure it is a reliable partner by offsetting any reductions in Russian imports with its own energy exports and facilitating Belgium’s energy strategy on a larger scale with the rest of the EU.