The number of tankers crossing the Atlantic Ocean with liquefied natural gas cargoes has risen significantly in recent days. Why? Europe's energy crisis is deepening.

As of 10:00 on Wednesday, 22 December, Bloomberg shipping data found 15 tankers heading for European ports, while another 11 vessels are en route to as-yet undeclared destinations, though their routes indicate they are also likely heading towards Europe. As is known, Europe's energy crisis has intensified recently following the shutdown of nuclear reactors in France and a decrease in wind power capacity in Germany, which has forced both countries to burn more coal and oil products to keep homes warm and lit.