As of June 8, 2026, European Union countries have injected over 15 billion cubic meters of gas into their underground storage facilities since the start of the summer season in April. Currently, these facilities are 42.1% full, a decrease from 50.5% at the same time last year, totaling 46 billion cubic meters in storage. The European Commission mandates that storage levels must reach 90% capacity by December, with a minimum injection target of 68 billion cubic meters for the upcoming winter season. This target is particularly challenging given the ongoing competition for liquefied natural gas (LNG) due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have driven up fuel prices. Gazprom has expressed concerns that gas reserves may not even reach 70% before the heating season begins. The previous heating season, which ended in early April, was the second-longest recorded, lasting 173 days and surpassing only the 2020-2021 season. During that time, net withdrawals exceeded 61 billion cubic meters, indicating a significant demand for gas despite lower injection levels last summer.