... However, any unexpected halt or change in agreements could prompt Brent quotes to rise again. Gas Storage Filling: It is critically important for Europe to reach the target of 90% filling of UGS by autumn. Any delays against the schedule or new supply disruptions (such as unscheduled repairs by Norwegian producers) may trigger a surge in gas prices at the end of summer. Conversely, early accumulation of reserves will exert downward pressure on quotes. Weather Factor: Prolonged extreme heat or the occurrence of natural disasters (hurricanes, floods) – particularly in the U.S. and Asia ...

... economic slowdown might cool fuel demand. Gas Storage Replenishment. Progress in Europe towards achieving the goal of 90% gas storage capacity by the heating season, as well as securing alternative gas supplies (via LNG and other routes) will determine the gas market situation in autumn and winter. Sufficient reserves can help stabilize prices, while setbacks in the schedule or import disruptions may return volatility. OPEC+ Actions and Production. The adherence of OPEC+ countries to their planned oil production increases and decisions at upcoming meetings of the alliance will impact market balance and price dynamics. Moreover, production ...

... significant volumes of LNG from the US, Qatar, and other sources. Norway, remaining the largest supplier of pipeline gas to the EU, also maintains high export levels (over 300 million cubic meters per day at the end of June), although periodic technical disruptions at fields (e.g., maintenance at the "Nihamna" plant) sometimes limit the flow. Russian pipeline gas through the southern route (via Turkey and the Balkans) remains at moderate levels (~50 million cubic meters per day). Asian gas markets are also experiencing the impact of extreme heat. In certain East Asian countries, record temperature peaks this ...

... weather contributes to a high output of solar energy, which helps moderate demand for gas during peak generation hours. Stable liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies and relatively weak industrial demand maintain balance in the market. Overall, European gas prices are currently significantly lower than the crisis peaks of 2022; however, any supply disruptions or an early cold spell in the fall could once again heighten volatility. Global Agreements and Policy: Trade De-escalation and Sanction Pressures In international affairs, a significant recent development has been the U.S.-EU trade and energy ...

....S. decision to temporarily ease sanctions on transactions involving Russian banks related to the energy sector. This includes lifting restrictions on major financial institutions like Sberbank and VTB, allowing continued transactions in the oil and gas sector. Such a move could help avoid disruptions in global energy markets and support the stability of Russia's currency flows. The article explores the potential consequences for the economy and energy sector, as well as the significance of this decision for international trade relations....