French imports of Russian LNG surge, but Ukraine supporters seek a stop

A concrete gravity-based structure of Arctic LNG 2 joint venture is seen under construction in a dry dock of the LNG Construction centre near the settlement of Belokamenka, Murmansk region, Russia July 26, 2022. REUTERS - STRINGER

Shipments of Russian liquified natural gas (LNG) to France more than doubled the first half of this year, fresh analyses of trade data shows. It comes as Europe seeks to pull back from energy purchases that help finance the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine.

Europe has restricted oil imports from Russia, but natural gas is still allowed. And while companies in France are importing the most, one analysis found that EU countries overall imported 7 percent more Russian LNG in the first half of this year compared to the same period a year ago.