This is reported by RBC-Ukraine referencing Facebook of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine. Reports also come from Kontrakty.UA.
It is noted that Western sanctions have impacted the Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector, complicating the production and export of this resource.
As of November 1, a 90 percent reduction in production at "Arctic LNG-2," owned by "Novatek," has been observed. Since the beginning of the month, gas-producing fields have only generated 0.4 million cubic meters per day, marking the lowest level since September 2023.
The "Arctic LNG-2" project is a crucial part of Russia's strategy to increase the production and export of liquefied natural gas and to develop the Northern Sea Route. However, Western sanctions have significantly hindered its implementation.
Due to economic challenges, Putin has even signed a decree allowing strategic companies such as "Novatek," "Arctic LNG-2," "Yamal LNG," "Surgutneftegaz," "Lazurit," and others to independently determine the volume and content of information regarding their activities that must be disclosed.
"This indicates that conditions in this sector of the economy are much worse than what the Kremlin declares," the Foreign Intelligence Service noted.
Sanctions Against "Arctic LNG-2"
Recall that in November 2023, the project "Arctic LNG-2" of the Russian company "Novatek" was subjected to Western sanctions due to Russia's war against Ukraine.
The United States has also imposed sanctions on hundreds of legal entities and individuals for supporting Russia's military efforts, including companies involved in the development of the "Arctic LNG-2" project and its supply of liquefied natural gas.
This year, it was reported that Russia is unable to acquire vessels for the "Arctic LNG-2" project due to U.S. sanctions.