Athens opposes the ban on the transit of Russian liquefied gas to third countries, fearing serious losses for Greek shipping companies. Greece is trying to persuade the European Union to abandon the ban on the transit of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to countries outside the EU. Authorities believe that the new restrictions will primarily hit European shipowners, while their competitors from other regions will fill the vacated niche, [reports](https://nos.nl/nieuwsuur/artikel/2624069-griekenland-houdt-nieuwe-eu-sancties-rusland-tegen-hoofdrol-voor-steenrijke-reder) NOS. Particular attention is focused on the Greek company Dynagas, owned by billionaire George J. Prokopiou — one of the largest shipowners in the world. The company operates ice-breaking gas carriers servicing, among others, the Russian Yamal LNG project, which has become the center of discussions about new sanctions. Prokopiou has long opposed government interference in the shipping industry. In 2024, he stated that he always advises ministers "not to interfere in the affairs of their sector." Shipping plays a key role in the Greek economy, and the industry benefits from special tax conditions enshrined in the Constitution. Observers believe that the influence of the largest shipowners explains Athens' active position in Brussels. Disagreements over the new sanctions package show that even within the European Union there is no unity on the issue of restrictions against Russian LNG. For Greece, not only political but also economic interests of its own shipping sector come to the forefront.