US Deepens Energy Cooperation with Greece in LNG, Shipbuilding

The Trump administration is intensifying its energy partnership with Greece, focusing on expanding U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and strengthening shipbuilding cooperation as part of a broader strategy to reduce Europe's reliance on Russian fossil fuels. U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, chair of the White House National Energy Dominance Council, visited Athens to discuss these initiatives, highlighting Greece's growing role as a key energy player in the Eastern Mediterranean. Greece's imports of U.S. LNG have nearly doubled, and the country is leveraging its geopolitical position by facilitating projects like Chevron and Hellenic Energy's exploration bids south of Crete. The U.S. aims to use Greek ports such as Alexandroupoli as LNG hubs to supply Europe, aligning with a $750 billion EU trade agreement emphasizing increased U.S. energy exports. Additionally, the collaboration extends to enhancing shipbuilding capabilities to counter China's maritime influence. Greek officials view these developments as foundational for their energy self-sufficiency and geopolitical strength in the region under Prime Minister Mitsotakis' government.