US and Russia discussed possible US involvement in Nord Stream projects – Reuters
Russian and American officials discussed the possibility of involving an American investor in the "Nord Stream" gas pipeline projects, through which Russia supplied gas to Europe prior to its full-scale invasion.
According to Censor.NET, Reuters reports this, citing informed sources.
Among those said to be involved in the negotiations are U.S. Special Representative and Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and Vladimir Putin's close adviser Kirill Dmitriev.
Kushner and Dmitriev met in New York and Moscow
According to the agency, Kushner and Dmitriev have met in New York and Moscow over the past few weeks.
At the same time, Reuters sources noted that they could not say for certain how extensively the "Nord Stream" issue was discussed during these meetings. They emphasized that the topic remains on the agenda.
The White House denied that the parties had discussed Russian gas supplies to Europe.
The U.S. official also stated that any potential agreements must be approved by Russia in consultation with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. According to him, such agreements must also be in the interests of American taxpayers and companies.
It is currently unlikely that the "Nord Stream" pipeline will resume operations
According to an American official, given the current obstacles, it is unlikely that a relevant agreement will be reached in the medium term.
The "Nord Stream" gas pipelines are subject to sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union. Therefore, resuming operations under the current circumstances would be illegal.
In theory, U.S. President Donald Trump could lift or ease U.S. sanctions. However, if the Democrats take control of Congress after the midterm elections in November, it will be more difficult to take such a step.
