The Kremlin has confirmed that Russia and the U.S. are negotiating the resumption of Russian gas supplies to Europe, marking a potential geopolitical shift as Trump pushes for a Ukraine peace deal.
Key Developments:
- Behind-the-Scenes Talks: U.S. and Russian officials are discussing ways to revive Moscow’s gas exports to the EU, which collapsed after:
- Nord Stream pipeline sabotage (2022)
- Ukraine’s refusal to renew transit deals (2024)
- Trump’s Peace Gambit: Restoring Russian gas could be a bargaining chip in broader Ukraine negotiations, sources say.
- Kremlin’s Stance: Senior aide Yury Ushakov confirmed the issue is being raised with Washington but gave no further details.
Market & Political Impact:
- Energy Security: Europe still relies on LNG imports (mostly U.S.) but faces higher costs vs. Russian pipeline gas.
- Ukraine’s Role: Any deal risks sidelining Kyiv, which previously earned $1B+/year in transit fees.
- Global Gas Prices: A Russian return could lower European prices, undercutting U.S. LNG dominance.
Russia and U.S. Hold Secret Talks to Restore Gas Flows to Europe, Kremlin Confirms