The United States is poised to uphold a long-term energy partnership with its European allies as the world’s leading producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) aims to replace Russian gas supplies, stated US Energy Secretary Chris Wright in an interview with Euronews. This announcement came during discussions in Greece focused on expediting Europe’s shift away from reliance on Moscow’s energy resources.
Wright, alongside Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, participated in talks in Greece that included more than 80 US officials, EU energy ministers, and prominent LNG executives, hosted by the Atlantic Council, a prominent think tank based in Washington. Burgum emphasized the US’s capacity to replace Russian gas, asserting,
“The United States alone could displace all the Russian gas in Europe with what we’re building.”
Transatlantic energy cooperation and Greece’s strategic role
This initiative aligns with US efforts to leverage its position as the top global LNG exporter, linking energy supply to trade relations with Europe and the ongoing objective of ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. In his dialogue with Euronews, Wright reinforced Washington’s commitment to a sustained energy presence in Europe, underscoring Greece’s pivotal role in this strategy.
“I think the support is quite sustainable,” Wright remarked. “We have been allies with European nations throughout the history of the United States. Our resources are vast, our desire to develop cooperation, both economic and national security, is strong. Yes, the United States will be here for the long term,” he added.
Europe has emerged as the largest market for US LNG, with particular emphasis on the Vertical Corridor—a new north-south pipeline extending from Greece to Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine. Export terminals located near Athens and in northern Greece are expected to play a crucial role in this energy network. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged,
“Greece is blessed with a very unique geographic location and we are the natural entry point for American liquefied natural gas into Europe.”
Greece’s evolution as an energy hub
In his remarks, Wright detailed the significant role Greece now plays in the energy landscape of southeastern Europe. He noted that projects like the Alexandroupolis LNG terminal and regional connections have highlighted Greece’s strategic importance in energy supply.
Wright remarked, “Greece is an excellent partner. Greece has historically been a shipping powerhouse, as 20% of global shipping and over a third of all LNG shipments are made by Greek companies.” He pointed out that Greece’s role has transformed from merely being an endpoint in the energy transmission system dominated by Russian supply to becoming a critical gateway for American energy entering Europe. This shift is not only beneficial for Greece economically but also strengthens the US’s longstanding alliance with the nation.
Wright also emphasized the significance of US investments in the energy sectors of Greece and Cyprus, which contribute to geopolitical stability in the region. He stated, “The pipeline infrastructure that Greece is building and interconnecting with all the neighboring nations is uniting this region of the world.”
As Wright continues to advocate for increased energy collaboration, he expressed optimism that this natural gas corridor and the development of Greek ports will enhance trade and foster economic growth across the region.
While energy discussions take center stage, Wright’s absence from the ongoing United Nations COP30 climate summit in Brazil has sparked concerns regarding US engagement in global climate politics. Wright has indicated a low likelihood of attending next year’s event, noting his extensive background in climate change discourse.
“Look, I’ve been working, studying, writing, reading about climate change for over 20 years,” he explained. Wright stressed the vital role of natural gas in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, stating, “The United States has reduced greenhouse gas emissions more than the next seven nations combined.” He added, “This was simply the economic displacement of natural gas in the energy sector. The replacement of coal.”
In summary, while acknowledging the reality of climate change, Wright expressed concerns about its portrayal in political contexts, asserting that energy production growth will continue to meet the demands of a burgeoning global population.