According to NHK, the Japanese government plans to divert some liquefied natural gas imports to European countries that are working to secure energy supplies amid escalating tensions surrounding Ukraine. The US and its European allies have suggested imposing sanctions on Russia if it invades Ukraine. Some observers say that could prompt Russia to reduce natural gas supplies to Europe. Europe gets about 40 percent of its supply from Russia, through pipelines. The Japanese government plans to ensure a stable domestic supply, then will try to support Europe by asking energy firms with LNG interests to cooperate.