US Natural Gas Exporters Gain from Mideast Supply Disruptions

Russian outlets stress that Europe’s gas price jump shows how vulnerable it is after cutting most Russian pipeline imports. They argue that Europe has swapped dependence on Russian gas for dependence on unstable sea routes through the Gulf and costly US LNG. They predict that sustained high prices will strain European industry and households and may push some countries to reconsider long-term supply choices.

• •The gas price in Europe rising to about $790 per 1,000 cubic meters is presented as proof of Europe’s fragile position.
• •Russian commentators argue that Europe’s shift away from Russian pipeline gas has increased its exposure to Middle East supply shocks.
• •US LNG exporters are portrayed as profiting from European energy insecurity created by earlier sanctions and policy choices.
• •Higher gas prices are said to threaten the competitiveness of European manufacturers already under pressure from energy costs.
• •Russian voices suggest that some European states may eventually seek more stable long-term arrangements outside the Gulf and US LNG mix.