Ukraine and Greece Forge New U.S. LNG Gas Route to Bypass Russian Energy
In a significant strategic move to bolster European energy security, Ukraine and Greece have signed a landmark agreement to channel U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Ukraine via Greek infrastructure. The deal, signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens, marks a pivotal step in diversifying away from Russian gas and strengthening the region’s energy resilience.
The Deal’s Mechanics: A Southern Corridor for American Gas
The declaration of intent between Greece’s DEPA Emporia and Ukraine’s Naftogaz outlines a clear delivery plan. U.S. LNG will be shipped to the Revithoussa regasification terminal in Greece. Once converted back to gaseous form, the gas will enter the “Vertical Corridor” pipeline network, traversing Bulgaria and Romania, moving through Moldova, and finally reaching Ukraine.
This route, also known as “Route 1,” has already received regulatory approval. The coordinated effort involves energy operators from all five transit countries—Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine—to ensure the corridor is operational for the critical winter period. Deliveries are scheduled from December 2025 through March 2026, with the first gas expected to flow in January 2026.
Bolstering Ukraine Against Winter Threats
For Ukraine, this agreement is a crucial lifeline. President Zelenskyy emphasized its importance in preparing for a “harsh winter,” a time when the country’s energy infrastructure remains a target for Russian attacks. The guaranteed supply of American gas will help shield Ukrainian citizens and critical services from energy shortages.
Zelenskyy estimated the cost of the gas imports at nearly €2 billion, a sum Kyiv plans to secure through European financial institutions and its own banking system. This financial planning underscores the strategic priority Ukraine places on securing its energy independence.
Elevating Greece as a European Energy Hub
The agreement solidifies Greece’s emerging role as a key energy gateway for Central and Eastern Europe. Prime Minister Mitsotakis stated that “Ukraine can rely on Greece,” framing the partnership as part of a broader European push for energy resilience. By positioning itself as a primary entry point for U.S. LNG, Greece enhances its own geopolitical and economic standing.
This deal aligns with Greece’s long-term energy strategy, which includes a separate, long-term contract for U.S. LNG imports starting in 2030 and significant investments in its energy infrastructure to become a regional gas hub.
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A Geopolitical Shift Away from Russian Energy
Beyond the immediate energy supply, the agreement carries a powerful geopolitical message. It is a tangible realization of the U.S. vision to replace “every last molecule of Russian gas” with American exports. U.S. officials have consistently highlighted Greece as a “natural entry point” for American LNG into the European market, and this deal confirms that strategic alignment.
By creating a viable southern gas corridor, the partnership between Ukraine, Greece, and the United States deals a blow to Russia’s ability to use energy as a political weapon. It demonstrates a coordinated Western strategy to rebuild Europe’s energy landscape, marginalizing Russia’s role and enhancing the continent’s collective security.
As this energy corridor becomes operational, it will not only provide Ukraine with vital winter fuel but also redefine energy flows in Southeastern Europe, marking a definitive shift towards a more secure and diversified European energy future.
