Monika Schnitzer, an economist from Munich, warned that Germany could become vulnerable to pressure if it relies almost entirely on liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from the United States. “It’s not good that we are becoming so dependent” she told newspapers of the Funke Media Group. “I would not rule out the possibility that Trump might one day threaten to turn off the gas faucet if he wants concessions from us”.
Germany currently obtains more than 90 % of its LNG from the United States. Schnitzer pointed out that there are other suppliers worldwide, citing Qatar and Norway as examples, but noted that buying short‑term would drive prices higher.
She called for the establishment of a strategic gas reserve, saying, “It’s advisable to have a gas reserve. In the event of a serious crisis in any form, we would at least be protected for some time”.
With winter temperatures expected to stay low, Schnitzer said she does not exclude the need for more efficient heating. “We haven’t yet received a signal from politics that we are facing a supply crisis” she added. “If it remains very cold into March or April and gas becomes scarce, we could ask people to temper their heating use”.
