Putin's partner seeks to revive Nord Stream 2 with U.S. backing
Matthias Warnig, a former spy and close associate of Vladimir Putin, is working on reactivating the Nord Stream 2 pipeline with the help of investors from the United States, which could affect relations with Moscow.
Matthias Warnig, a former Stasi officer and a trusted friend of Vladimir Putin, is taking steps to resume the operation of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. As reported by the Financial Times, American investors support him in this endeavour. Some U.S. officials see this initiative as a step towards rebuilding relations with Russia.
Will Trump reach an agreement with Putin on Nord Stream? Former spy to assist
According to the FT, Matthias Warnig, who led the Nord Stream 2 AG company until 2023, plans to reach out to Donald Trump's team through American businessmen. High-ranking European Union officials have learned about these plans and expressed their concerns. Leaders of several EU countries have already begun discussions on this matter.
To resume Nord Stream 2 operations, it is necessary to lift U.S. sanctions on Russia and obtain Russia's consent to restore gas sales. Additionally, Germany would have to agree to the flow of resources to Europe. The FT reports that an investor consortium has already developed a draft agreement with Gazprom, which could be signed once these conditions are met.
In a conversation with the FT, Matthias Warnig denied being involved in any talks with American politicians or businessmen. He emphasized that he adheres to the rules applicable to individuals subject to U.S. sanctions. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that he is unaware of any talks regarding the pipeline, and Gazprom declined to comment.
Nord Stream 2 as a strategic asset
During his first presidential term, Donald Trump criticized Nord Stream 2. However, there are currently individuals on his team who see the pipeline as a potential strategic asset that could be used in peace talks related to the conflict in Ukraine. The Financial Times emphasizes that resuming the project would require many approvals and the lifting of sanctions, making it a complex undertaking.
