Introduction to the Russia-Ukraine Conflict and European Energy
While the war in Ukraine breaks into its fourth year, the idea that Russia could pump gas to the European Union again through Germany is not as unusual as it was ago. In the middle of media reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to stop his invasion at the current front in discussions with the United States, continues speculation about the possible reintegration of Russian gas in the European Union.
Possible Reintegration of Russian Gas
Last month, some politicians from the German Central Rights Christian Democratic Union (CDU) welcomed the idea to repair both pipelines of the damaged North Stream 1 and the only damaged pipeline on North Stream 2. Nord Stream 1 brought petrol to Germany before the Ukraine war began, while Nord Stream 2 ended in September 2021, but had never actually entered the service.
USA and Russia’s Interest in Nord Stream Deal
Both Russia and the United States are reportedly interested in getting the gas through the pipelines again. The Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the discussions recently held in the United States belonged to North Stream. In the meantime, it says in several reports that US investors bought the purchase of Nord Stream 2 AG – The Swiss subsidiary of the Russian state energetic Gazprom, to whom Nord Stream 2 pipeline.
Concerns Over Energy Costs
The diversification of Europe from Russian gas and oil after the full invasion was the main factor, which led to an increase in energy costs in 2022 and 2023. Although the costs have decreased significantly from these highs, the resumption of Russian energy in the mix would probably further increase costs. German companies such as the Chemical Giant BASF have borne the main load of rising energy costs in recent years.
European Union’s Stance
The EU Commission recently repeated its position on Nord Stream 2. "Nord Stream 2 is not a project of common interest, but does not diversify the EU’s energy sources," said a spokesman for the EU Commission on March 3 at a press conference. The EU has undertaken to leave all Russian fossil fuels by 2027, and the European Commission plans to publish a detailed strategy and a roadmap on May 6th.
Technical Obstacles
Even if some were in German and European political establishment for the restoration of a or both North Stream pipelines, there are "several technical obstacles". On the one hand, the North Stream 2 pipeline has never been certified by Germany. Then there is the significant repair work that could start relatively quickly if the US could convince the EU’s advantages.
Conclusion
The restoration of Nord Stream is "absolutely bizarre and grotesque". It would show that we are generally not serious about Russian sanctions. The EU needs to make it clear that the reopening of the North Stream pipelines is not up for discussion. "We just have to say that this does not happen. And whatever you try to undermine a basic element of our politics to restrict Russia."
