US and Russia reportedly discuss American investor role in Nord Stream pipelines
Reuters reports that US and Russian officials have talked about bringing an American investor into the Nord Stream gas pipelines. The White House says no such talks have taken place recently, while Germany refuses to approve a restart.
Senior US and Russian officials have discussed involving an American investor in the Nord Stream gas pipeline project, Reuters reports, citing informed sources. Before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the pipelines carried gas to Germany.
According to the sources, the talks involved Kirill Dmitriev, an adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. Kushner is working toward a truce between Russia and Ukraine and considers business an important element of restoring peace. Such a deal would allow American investors to profit from gas deliveries to Europe once the war ends. The two have met in Moscow and New York in recent weeks; two sources say it is unclear how thoroughly they discussed Nord Stream, but the issue remains on the agenda.
White House and Berlin positions
A White House spokesperson said any agreement would have to be concluded with the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and the Treasury, and should benefit US taxpayers and companies. The spokesperson added that no Nord Stream talks have taken place lately.
A US official said that, given the obstacles, such a deal is unlikely in the medium term. The pipelines are covered by US and EU sanctions, so reviving them would run counter to existing restrictions. A spokeswoman for Germany's Economy and Energy Ministry said Germany has found alternative suppliers and that restarting the pipelines would require government consent, which Berlin does not wish to give.
Political divisions in Germany
Bundestag member Michael Kellner, who was responsible for German energy policy after the invasion, warned of a "dirty deal" that Europe would pay dearly for. Meanwhile, the Alternative for Germany party supports restarting the pipelines, and Dmitriev plans to meet its leadership early next year.
Lukoil assets
Reuters' sources say Kushner and Dmitriev also discussed selling several Lukoil assets, including refineries and filling stations. A consortium including the DFC and investors from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates would buy them, while the US would lift the relevant sanctions. A White House spokesperson confirmed talks on a substantial advance payment and a US share of profits.
