A Greenpeace blockade at the Zeebrugge LNG terminal halted LNG deliveries, protesting European imports of Russian gas amid the Ukraine conflict. Police dispersed the protest, and other ships took caution navigating. Belgium, a major Russian LNG importer, faces EU plans for early sanctions on these imports.
During a 30-hour protest by Greenpeace, at least four LNG-laden tankers destined for Belgium's Zeebrugge LNG terminal were either diverted or delayed. The environmental group aimed to disrupt European imports of Russian gas, citing ongoing tensions over Moscow's actions in Ukraine.
The blockade involved kayaks, life rafts, and sailboats, effectively blocking the terminal's entrance. Police eventually arrested the protesters, who were determined to make a statement against the purchases contributing to Russia's economy amid the conflict.
Officials confirmed that the terminal's operations were unaffected by the protest, although other ships exercised added caution. This event highlights ongoing debates in the EU, where plans are underway to expedite a ban on Russian LNG imports, placing pressure on key energy partnerships.