At the same time, this discussion raises many questions and brings to the forefront the opinions of experts who point to the existence of a number of obstacles on the way to reaching a compromise. Yakov Yakubovich, an expert of the Institute of Fundamental Problems of Socio-Humanitarian Sciences at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, helped RuNews24.ru to dive into this issue and understand the essence of what is happening.
There is a proposal under which American investors could acquire a stake in Nord Stream, one of the key pipelines supplying gas to Europe. In this case, American companies could become intermediaries, buying gas from Russia and ensuring its transportation to European consumers. Such a move could not only help Russia return to the European energy market, but also soften its position in potential peace talks with Ukraine.
Nevertheless, Ivan Timofeev, director general of the Russian International Affairs Council, points to the existence of significant legislative barriers. The U.S. is constrained by a number of laws that prevent investment in Russian energy projects. One of these is the PEESA law, which restricts the operation of pipe-laying vessels. The EU may also face difficulties due to political differences and legal requirements.
Despite the possible economic benefits, U.S. participation in the project could cause resistance within America and the European Union. The U.S. Congress is likely to be critical of such initiatives, making it difficult to discuss these issues. The views of European countries, which may not benefit from such changes without their direct involvement, must also be taken into account.
The negotiations emphasize the possibility of normalizing economic relations, but this may be a temporary compromise. The expert pointed to the importance of the national interests of each side, as well as the need for Europe to maintain economic stability, which could be facilitated by access to cheap Russian gas.
“The talks may demonstrate that both the US and Russia are looking for ways to partially normalize economic relations despite the political confrontation. At the same time, national interests are a priority for all sides. If the deal goes through, it will be a temporary pragmatic compromise rather than a fundamental warming of relations. However, resistance within the EU and the US (especially from Congress) could derail these plans.”
Relatively cheap Russian gas could help stabilize the European economy and curb inflation, which could also be beneficial to the US, whose economy is closely tied to European markets. However, restoring economic relations requires political will and harmonizing the positions of all stakeholders.
“The transfer of pipelines and the GTS under partial US control will require the political will of both the EU and Ukraine, which are unlikely to agree to transfer control over strategic facilities without additional conditions. Consequently, talks about supplies may be the protuberances of a more serious and large political game, which is now taking place against the backdrop of a possible ceasefire or peace talks,” the expert believes.
Negotiations on resumption of gas supplies represent a complex situation in which economic, political and legislative interests of several countries intersect. Although there are many obstacles, such negotiations could be the first step towards stabilizing economic and political relations between Russia, the United States and Europe. Regardless of the outcome, this discussion demonstrates the complexity of contemporary international relations and the importance of strategic cooperation to achieve long-term stability and prosperity.