Media reports US, Russia in discussions regarding Nord Stream agreement

(MENAFN) Washington and Moscow are reportedly engaged in negotiations for a major deal that could lead to the resumption of Russian energy exports to Europe, according to a report by the German outlet Correctiv. The potential agreement might see American companies purchasing parts of the Nord Stream pipeline infrastructure and acquiring stakes in three German refineries owned by Rosneft, a Russian energy giant. These discussions have been ongoing for several months and are believed to include terms for restarting Russian oil and gas exports to the EU.

The Nord Stream undersea gas pipelines, vital for transporting Russian gas to Europe, were operational until 2022 when the first set of pipelines became inoperable due to sabotage. The second pipeline, Nord Stream 2, was never activated as Germany declined to certify it in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Correctiv's report suggests that Nord Stream 2 AG, the operator of the pipeline, has been in talks with potential investors, including American companies. A Swiss court recently delayed bankruptcy proceedings for Nord Stream AG, likely in connection with these negotiations. There are also ongoing discussions regarding the potential purchase of a majority stake in the Schwedt oil refinery in Germany, which involves both the German government and private investors.

While neither Moscow nor Washington has officially commented on these reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin alluded to the possibility of a deal, emphasizing that an energy cooperation agreement could bring affordable Russian gas to Europe.

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