EU to Exploit Trump’s Tariff Pause for New LNG Deal

The European Union is considering promoting its offer to purchase more American liquefied natural gas (LNG), leveraging the pause in global tariffs that have disrupted the economy. According to sources cited by Politico, the EU plans to reopen negotiations to strengthen LNG purchases from the U.S., offering specific proposals to address President Trump’s concerns about transatlantic trade. Specifically, the EU is exploring ways to consolidate demand, enabling larger pan-European orders to meet White House requirements at potentially more competitive prices. Efforts to engage Trump’s administration on this issue have faced confusion and indifference in Washington, but recent market fluctuations and pressure from business leaders have shifted the situation. On Tuesday, Trump urged Europeans to buy more U.S. energy, citing a $350 billion trade deficit. The following day, he announced a 90-day tariff pause, insisting partners now negotiate to eliminate trade barriers. The EU sees this as an opportunity to advance its LNG proposal. Officials openly express their desire to consume more American fuel, framing it as a way to sever ties with adversarial Russia. Some EU countries claim their companies are already importing as much LNG as possible. However, the effectiveness of a consolidated gas demand system remains unclear, echoing issues from a similar initiative after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Concerns persist over rising LNG prices, as EU nations must fill storage tanks to 90% capacity by November annually. Many capitals worry summer buying sprees will drive costs up, pushing for relaxed rules to reduce overall spending.