The EU is considering an 18th sanctions package against Russia, including disconnecting over 20 banks from SWIFT, lowering the G7 oil price cap to ~$45 per barrel, and banning the Nord Stream pipelines. These measures, alongside approximately €2.5 billion in new trade restrictions, aim to further cripple Russia’s economy and limit its access to Western technology. While requiring unanimous approval from all 27 member states, the package reflects continued EU resolve despite previous criticism of insufficiently strong sanctions. The proposals are currently under review by the European Commission.
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Secret negotiations between Russia and U.S. representatives regarding American acquisition of the damaged Nord Stream pipelines have reportedly been ongoing for weeks, with Richard Grenell allegedly involved. These discussions, viewed by some German officials as a realistic possibility, raise concerns about a potential Trump-Putin deal reviving gas supplies and strengthening Kremlin ties. German officials are actively assessing preventative measures, citing the strategic importance of independence from Russian gas and the pipeline’s lack of certification. Expert warnings highlight the symbolic implications of such a deal, emphasizing that Nord Stream’s reactivation would undermine peace efforts.
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Richard Grenell’s multiple trips to Switzerland involved discussions regarding restarting Russian gas exports to Germany through Nord Stream 2, potentially with US companies acting as intermediaries. Proposals included US control over gas flow and repurposing Nord Stream 1 for green hydrogen transport. German authorities deny knowledge of these meetings, contradicting Bild’s reporting which cites unnamed government sources. The Financial Times linked these negotiations to Matthias Warnig, a former Nord Stream 2 executive with past ties to Putin.
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John Q. Hosedrinker