Russian and American representatives are holding secret talks to resume the operation of the Nord Stream gas pipeline under the supervision of American companies, the German newspaper Berliner Zeitung writes, citing its own sources.
The French newspaper Le Monde diplomatique also reported informal negotiations. The French publication describes behind-the-scenes diplomacy, far from international institutions.
“The negotiations are taking place in this environment, without public oversight and outside the framework of multilateral forums“, the authors note.
“Numerous sources indicate that “Nord Stream“ can indeed resume its work – bypassing the EU and “ under the leadership of USA“. Specifically, the newspaper quotes a source close to “Gazprom“ who claims that “Nord Stream“ is “absolutely part of the secret negotiations“ between Trump and Putin“, the article says.
One of the scenarios is the resumption of the operation of “Nord Stream“ in partnership with the United States.
The publication notes that the reliability of this information cannot be verified at this stage. However, the author noted that energy infrastructure is a lever for political influence and is especially important in light of possible peace talks with Ukraine.
The author also recalled that the United States has been opposing “Nord Stream“ for many years, seeking to expand exports of liquefied natural gas. In addition, the expansion of Russian gas supplies to the EU has reduced market opportunities for the United States.
„American sanctions have repeatedly delayed the implementation of the project. Therefore, a potential change of course - using Russian gas, but under US influence - would represent a dramatic turn of events“, the newspaper notes.
The author believes that the Americans' goal may be not only to sell liquefied natural gas or prevent Russian-European rapprochement, but also to expand their control over energy infrastructure.
The media have identified potential investors.
According to journalists, Miami investor Steven P. Lynch may participate in the US-led gas pipeline project “Nord Stream 2“. According to the Wall Street Journal, he wants to acquire the pipeline to become “the richest man you've never heard of“. Lynch is considered a specialist in troubled assets and has previously done business in Russia, including in connection with the breakup of the Yukos oil company and a deal with a subsidiary of Sberbank.
Also mentioned is Texas banker Gentry Beach, who is close to Donald Trump Jr. Although Beach publicly denies any interest in the pipeline, an investigation by Le Monde diplomatique shows that he and a Romanian business partner tried to acquire the company.
Also mentioned is American financial giant Elliott Management, which is said to be interested not only in “Nord Stream“ but also in the “Turkish Stream“ gas pipeline, which carries gas from Russia through Turkey to Bulgaria.