Trials and tribulations for Russian LNG

Novatek may have completed Arctic LNG 2’s first train on time, but the harder part will be securing buyers and shipping cargoes as Washington seeks to halt Russia’s LNG expansion

The first train of Russia’s flagship Arctic LNG 2 liquefaction project is complete and undergoing commissioning, Moscow reported in December, defying expectations of construction delays. But when the terminal will actually start exporting gas, as well as how much and to which markets, remains greatly in doubt, given the complications caused by international sanctions. In light of the latest round of US measures that target the project directly, experts warn the train’s launch may be delayed until spring, as operator Novatek scrambles to find the means of shipping the LNG to market and secure buyers willing to incur Washington’s wrath. Expanding LNG exports is a strategic priority for Russia—