Russia and the US Discuss Resumption of Gas Supplies to Europe via Nord Stream

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced on March 24, 2025, that Moscow is engaged in negotiations with Washington regarding the potential restoration of Russian gas supplies to Europe through the Nord Stream pipelines. Lavrov made this statement during an interview with Channel One, with details subsequently published by the TASS news agency.

Despite existing tensions, Lavrov emphasized that both Russia and the United States have a mutual interest in normalizing energy supplies to Europe. “Providing Europe with energy resources is a common task. Now there is talk about the Nord Streams,” he stated, stressing that the success of these discussions hinges on whether the US can persuade its European allies to reconsider their stance on completely rejecting Russian gas.

Lavrov expressed confusion over the opposition from certain European leaders to the resumption of gas supplies. He specifically referenced European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, both of whom have firmly rejected the idea. He described it as “surreal” that Russia could potentially resume gas supplies through the halted pipelines with the involvement of the United States, a country that previously supported sanctions against these projects.

The Nord Stream and Nord Stream 2 pipelines were decommissioned following sabotage attacks in September 2022, which damaged both lines in the Baltic Sea. Since then, Europe—once reliant on Russia for up to 40% of its gas—has experienced a significant spike in energy prices and has sought alternative sources. According to Eurostat, the share of Russian gas in EU imports dropped to 8% in 2024, with Norway, the United States, and Qatar emerging as the main suppliers.

However, the high costs associated with liquefied natural gas (LNG) and limited terminal capacities have resulted in ongoing energy shortages across Europe, particularly as countries prepare for the 2025-2026 winter season. The discussions between Russia and the US could play a crucial role in addressing these challenges and stabilizing energy supplies in the region.