The European continent is bracing for a difficult winter as gas reserves fall below seasonal averages. Since the beginning of 2026, the European Union has incurred over 100 billion euros in additional costs to import oil and gas. EU nations are struggling to meet the mandated 90% storage capacity target by November, amid concerns over price volatility. The energy market remains complex due to heightened global competition for liquefied natural gas (LNG), particularly from Asian markets, alongside the impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East on international supply chains.