U.S. Proposes Russian Gas Sales to Europe via Ukraine

The United States is advocating for a swift resumption of Russian natural gas sales to Europe through pipelines that traverse Ukraine. This initiative was discussed by U.S. emissaries during their trips to Moscow and Kyiv in September.

According to participants in the discussions, the proposal involves selling Russian gas through an American intermediary to bypass European sanctions. While current EU legislation mandates a cessation of all Russian gas purchases by the end of 2027, European leaders have expressed a commitment to avoid renewed dependency on Russian energy.

Negotiators believe that reintegrating Russia into the European market could incentivize President Putin to consider a peaceful resolution. Additionally, utilizing the Ukrainian gas pipeline network would generate transit revenue for Kyiv. A U.S. official suggested that proceeds from gas sales could be deposited in an escrow account located in a third jurisdiction to prevent their use in funding military actions.

American officials are working to persuade European leaders that this approach could help lower energy prices ahead of winter. However, some European leaders have voiced strong opposition, drawing historical parallels to previous wartime concessions.

Source: wsj.com