Russia has signaled a new chapter in its energy relations with Mexico, offering to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) and share advanced energy sector technologies, according to a statement from the Russian embassy in Mexico on June 21, 2025. This development comes amid Mexico's ongoing challenges to boost domestic oil and gas production and reduce its heavy dependence on U.S. energy imports.
Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev, speaking shortly after attending the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, confirmed that Russia is already collaborating with Mexico. "We are already working with Mexico. We have excellent LNG technologies, and we are ready to share these technologies and supply LNG as well," Tsivilev said, highlighting Russia's readiness to deepen energy ties.
The Russian embassy further elaborated that Russia is prepared to offer cutting-edge oil extraction technologies tailored for difficult geological conditions, alongside solutions designed to enhance oil processing efficiency. This comes at a critical time for Mexico's state oil company, Pemex, which is grappling with aging infrastructure and limited funding as it strives to meet the government's ambitious production target of 1.8 million barrels per day.
In May 2025, Pemex disclosed efforts to reopen closed wells to ramp up output, a daunting task given that around one-third of its more than 30,000 wells across the country remain shut. Internal documents reviewed by Reuters reveal that Pemex is prioritizing wells with the highest potential for increasing crude, gas, or condensate production, though progress has been slow.
Mexico currently meets approximately 72% of its total natural gas demand through imports, nearly all of which come from the United States via pipeline. Natural gas is a crucial fuel for Mexico, primarily used to generate electricity and support industrial activities. This heavy reliance on U.S. imports has long been a source of concern for Mexican energy security, especially after the 2021 Texas winter storm disrupted supplies, causing widespread outages and economic losses.
In response to these vulnerabilities, Mexico has accelerated plans to double its strategic gas storage capacity by 2025-2026. Sources told Reuters earlier this year that this move is partly driven by worries that U.S. political leverage could be exerted through energy supply dependence, a scenario highlighted by the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The potential partnership with Russia offers Mexico a chance to diversify its energy sources and technologies, which could mitigate geopolitical risks and supply shocks. By incorporating Russian LNG and advanced extraction and processing methods, Mexico might reduce its exposure to the volatility of U.S. gas imports and bolster its domestic production capabilities.
While Pemex and the Mexican presidency have yet to comment publicly on the Russian offer, the announcement reflects broader trends in global energy realignments. Countries increasingly seek to secure energy independence and resilience amid geopolitical tensions and market uncertainties.
Russia's outreach to Mexico also underscores Moscow's strategic intent to expand its energy influence beyond traditional markets. By exporting LNG and sharing technology with Mexico, Russia can establish a foothold in the North American energy landscape, which has been dominated by U.S. and Canadian suppliers.
The challenges facing Pemex are emblematic of a wider struggle among oil-producing nations to maintain production levels amid aging fields and infrastructure. Mexico's reliance on imports for the majority of its natural gas needs illustrates the urgency of finding new solutions to enhance energy security.
Moreover, the timing of Russia's offer is notable, coming just months after Mexico fast-tracked its gas storage expansion plans. This suggests a mutual recognition of the strategic benefits of cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in LNG supply and technology transfer.
As Mexico navigates its energy future, the potential integration of Russian technology and LNG supplies could play a pivotal role in achieving its production targets and reducing dependency on a single supplier. The success of such a partnership, however, will depend on various factors including regulatory approvals, infrastructure compatibility, and geopolitical considerations.
In the broader context, energy security remains a top priority for many nations, especially in light of recent disruptions and political uncertainties. Mexico's proactive steps to diversify its energy portfolio and increase storage capacity reflect an understanding that resilience is key to sustaining economic growth and stability.
Russia's willingness to share expertise in extracting oil under challenging geological conditions could also help Pemex unlock new reserves or extend the life of existing fields. Coupled with improved oil processing technologies, this could enhance Mexico's overall energy output and efficiency.
While the details of the proposed cooperation remain to be finalized, the announcement signals a potential shift in Mexico's energy strategy. It opens doors to new partnerships and technologies that could transform the country's energy landscape in the coming years.
For now, the world watches as Mexico balances its energy needs, geopolitical realities, and ambitions for self-sufficiency. Russia's offer adds a new dimension to this complex equation, promising opportunities and challenges alike.
