Why Europe needs Putin's natural gas?

Before Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, around 40–45% of EU gas imports came from Russia, but that share has since fallen to around 13–19% as of mid-2025. Eventually, Putin will negotiate an end to the Ukraine War (favorable to his objectives) and Europe will once again buy their natural gas from him.

One reason: Putin's gas is transported by pipeline. This is far more efficient and cost effective than by tanker (ergo, Iran, US) where the gas must first be converted to liquified natural gas first (LNG).

BTW: Pipeline gas normally costs betwen $6-8 per MMBtu whereas LNG costs between $10-15 per MMBtu.

For instance, Germany's manufacturing sector is literally being choked to death by the spiraling cost of energy...rendering uncompetitive.