Trump Threatens EU with Tariffs Over Energy Imports

• •Trump threatens tariffs on EU exports unless energy imports from the US increase.
• •The US is the largest supplier of LNG to the EU, accounting for 48% of imports.
• •A US study warns that increasing LNG exports could raise domestic gas prices by up to 30%.

President-elect Donald Trump warned the EU to increase its purchases of US oil and gas or face tariffs on its exports to the US. This statement reignites fears of a trade war as the US is the largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Europe. The EU has been shifting away from Russian energy sources since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. A recent US government study indicated that increasing LNG exports could raise domestic gas prices by up to 30%. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged the need for US gas to replace Russian imports. Trump’s comments may complicate his administration's energy export strategy, as they could lead to restrictions on exports, particularly diesel. The International Gas Union cautioned that limiting gas flows could harm economies reliant on imports. The US supplied 48% of the EU's LNG imports in early 2026, highlighting the bloc's dependence on American energy.