Russian gas: France among top buyers, bucking European trend

France became the top European buyer of Russian liquefied natural gas in the first half of 2026, importing 3.6 million tons, according to data from analysis firm Kpler cited by the Financial Times. EU imports from the Yamal LNG plant totaled 9.89 million tons, up 18% year-on-year. Paris maintains a tough stance against Moscow while increasing LNG purchases, highlighting Europe's struggle to reduce its energy dependence on Russia despite sanctions.