US Plan to Replace Russian Gas Starts: Ukraine Signs LNG Deal with Greece

WISE NEWS PRESS / ATHENS, GREECE — NOVEMBER 17, 2025

Greece has become the first European Union country to actively participate in Washington’s goal to fully replace Russian gas, signing an agreement with Ukraine to mediate the import of US Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

The deal, formalized by a letter of intent signed between Greek DEPA Emporia and Ukrainian Naftogaz, is viewed as a crucial step in ensuring Ukraine’s energy needs are met during the upcoming harsh winter, amid ongoing Russian strikes on its energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis signed the declaration during Zelenskyy's working visit to Athens.

Greece Becomes an Energy Hub

Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized Greece’s growing role in regional energy security: "Ukraine gains direct access to diversified and reliable energy sources, while Greece is becoming a hub providing American LNG to Central and Eastern Europe."

The agreement stipulates that the gas transport will take place between December 2025 and March 2026 to prepare Ukraine for severe winter conditions. According to Greek government sources, this is a critical contribution to regional and European energy security, relying on Greece’s strategic energy infrastructure along the Vertical Corridor.

Transport Via the Vertical Corridor

Zelenskyy stated on Sunday that the agreement would cover the nearly €2 billion in gas imports needed to compensate for production losses caused by Russian attacks.

The LNG will be regasified at the Revithoussa terminal in Greece and then transported to Ukraine via the Vertical Corridor pipeline system. This dedicated capacity product, known as "Route 1," was activated in late October by the pipeline operators (including DESFA, Bulgartransgaz, Transgaz, VestMoldTransgaz, and Ukraine GTSOU).

The gas will travel from Greece through Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova before reaching Ukraine, following the "eastern axis" of the Vertical Corridor design.

"Ukraine Can Rely on Us"

During the meeting, PM Mitsotakis assured Zelenskyy of the EU's support in natural gas supply during the challenging winter period.

Zelenskyy thanked the Greek side, reminding them that his country is at a critical juncture this winter: "This support is very important. We have a difficult winter ahead; this aid is vital as daily attacks on civilians continue." Zelenskyy is scheduled to continue his working visit with stops in Paris and Madrid.

Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy (right) and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis (left) signing the letter of intent for US LNG supply in Athens. (Photo: Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

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