EU Slams Door on Nord Stream Revival Despite US-Russia Talks
Brussels confirms 2027 ban on Russian gas imports, dismissing White House discussions with Moscow
The European Commission has dismissed any prospect of reviving the Nord Stream gas pipelines, despite reported talks between US and Russian officials to bring American investors into the project. Brussels confirmed its outright opposition to resuming Russian gas imports, citing the weaponisation of energy supplies during the Ukraine war and a legally binding ban on pipeline imports by September 2027.
The Commission’s position, articulated by spokesperson Paula Pinho, leaves no room for ambiguity. “We know far too well the hidden costs of being dependent on Russia for the purchase of fossil fuels,” Pinho told Euronews. “They have been weaponized and we have been paying the price, so we do not forget that.” Her remarks echoed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s stance: sanctions on Russian energy will remain until Moscow ends its war in Ukraine.
Even if the conflict were to conclude, the EU has already enshrined a legislative ban on all pipeline imports of Russian gas, set to take effect in September 2027. The pipeline system, which once delivered Russian gas directly to Germany, has been idle since the outbreak of the war.
Brussels Stands Firm on Russian Gas Ban: Nord Stream
According to sources cited by Reuters, the pair explored the possibility of bringing an American investor into the Nord Stream project, with meetings held in Moscow and New York in recent weeks. Kushner, who has been involved in diplomatic efforts to broker a truce between Russia and Ukraine, views business deals as a cornerstone of peace agreements.
A White House official, however, sought to downplay the significance of the talks. “Any deals will have to be negotiated by Russia with DFC (US International Development Finance Corporation) and Treasury and must benefit United States taxpayers and companies,” the official stated, adding that Nord Stream had not been on the diplomatic agenda recently. The denial contrasts with accounts from other sources, who claim the pipeline remains a topic of discussion.
US-Russia Talks Collide with European Resolve
The reported US interest in Russian energy extends beyond Nord Stream. The White House has also engaged in talks with the Kremlin about potential post-war involvement in Russia’s oil sector. Projects under consideration include restoring the Druzhba oil export pipeline to Europe, currently blocked by EU sanctions, and reviving international cooperation at the Sakhalin offshore oil and gas project, according to the Financial Times.
Despite these discussions, the legal and political obstacles remain formidable. Nord Stream is subject to US and EU sanctions, making any restart illegal under current regulations. While US President Donald Trump could theoretically waive or soften sanctions, such a move would face significant hurdles, particularly if Democrats gain control of Congress in next month’s midterm elections.
With the 2027 ban looming and no appetite for backtracking, the pipeline’s future appears sealed, regardless of any behind-the-scenes negotiations in Washington or Moscow.
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