G7 Targets Russian Gas Pipeline Restarts

The G7 and EU will ban Russian gas imports on routes where Moscow has cut supplies, according to FT sources - the first time pipeline gas trade has been blocked by western powers since the invasion of Ukraine.

• The decision, which is to be finalised by G7 leaders at a Japan summit May 19-21, will prevent the resumption of Russian pipeline gas exports on routes to countries such as Poland and Germany.
• According to the draft statement, seen by the FT, the group would further reduce their use of Russian energy sources “including preventing the reopening of avenues previously shut down by Russia’s weaponisation of energy” at least until “there is a resolution of the conflict”.
• The move is more of a symbolic gesture but may be to try and encourage LNG infrastructure investment over fears of reverting back to Russian gas in the future.