Greece and Ukraine Ink Deal for US LNG Supply to Bolster Winter Energy Security

Historic Energy Agreement Signed in Athens

In a significant move to bolster Ukraine's energy security, Greece and Ukraine formalized an agreement on Sunday, November 16, 2025, for the supply of US-origin liquefied natural gas (LNG). The deal was signed in Athens during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The new U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, was also present, underscoring the international support for the initiative.

The agreement, a declaration of intent between Greece's national gas company DEPA Commercial and Ukraine's state-owned energy giant Naftogaz, outlines the provision of LNG from December 2025 through March 2026. While the agreement officially commences in December, deliveries are slated to begin in January 2026.

Strategic Route and Regional Significance

The imported LNG will be transported to Ukraine via a crucial energy corridor known as the 'Vertical Corridor' or 'Route 1'. This route will see the gas moved from the Greek port of Alexandroupolis, through Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova, before reaching Ukraine. Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized Greece's evolving role, stating that the country is becoming 'an energy security provider' for Ukraine and a 'natural gateway' for American LNG into Central and Eastern Europe.

This strategic partnership is particularly vital for Ukraine, which has faced severe challenges to its energy infrastructure due to ongoing Russian attacks. President Zelensky highlighted the necessity of these imports to compensate for the destruction of Ukraine's domestic gas production facilities.

Financing and Future Prospects

To facilitate these critical imports, Ukraine has allocated nearly €2 billion ($2.3 billion). This financing is supported by European partners, various banks, and guarantees from the European Commission. The deal is seen as a significant step in Europe's broader efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce its reliance on Russian gas.

Beyond the immediate winter supply, discussions have also touched upon long-term arrangements for US LNG supplies via Greece, with some reports indicating partnerships extending until 2050. This underscores a sustained commitment to integrating Ukraine's energy infrastructure into European logistics and establishing a resilient system for gas supply and storage.

Conclusion

The agreement between Greece and Ukraine represents a critical development in regional energy cooperation, providing Ukraine with essential gas supplies for the upcoming winter and reinforcing Greece's strategic position as an energy hub. This collaboration aims to enhance energy resilience and security across Europe in the face of geopolitical challenges.