Resumption of Nord Stream and easing of sanctions: details of the US peace plan

The United States is considering the possibility of returning Russian gas to the European market and restarting the Nord Stream pipeline as one way to encourage Moscow to peacefully resolve the war against Ukraine. Russia could also receive sanctions relief and new economic opportunities as part of a potential deal.

This is what The Economist writes about.

According to the publication, the gas initiative has become another concession that the US administration is ready to offer to Russian President Vladimir Putin. At the same time, the Ukrainian side still does not have complete information about the content of the latest American proposals.

As The Economist notes, the proposed approach provides economic benefits for both sides, but the terms for Russia and Ukraine are significantly different. Moscow could gain commercial agreements with American companies, easing sanctions, and a gradual restoration of political relations with the West.

In return, Ukraine is offered an investment package and the prospect of joining the European Union. One of the possible conditions for such a settlement is Kyiv’s refusal to join NATO. It is also planned to create a demilitarized zone in Donbas.

However, plans to resume Russian gas exports to Europe face significant obstacles. The United States cannot decide alone whether Russian gas will return to the European market, as this issue depends on the decisions of European countries. In addition, as the publication notes, such a proposal contradicts European Union legislation.

A particular concern for Ukrainian negotiators is the possibility that American representatives will begin to conclude profitable commercial deals with Russia before the war ends. In such a scenario, Moscow would receive economic benefits until final agreements on the cessation of hostilities are reached.

At the same time, The Economist questions the Kremlin’s willingness to make real progress towards peace. According to the publication, Russia may drag out negotiations by using the diplomatic process to obtain concessions, including on sanctions, before a full peace agreement is concluded.

The intensification of negotiations follows the visit of US President’s special envoy Steve Witkoff to St. Petersburg on October 21, The Economist writes.

It was previously reported that representatives of the United States and Russia are discussing the possible involvement of an American investor in the Nord Stream gas pipelines. The talks are taking place against the backdrop of attempts by Washington and Moscow to agree on an end to the war against Ukraine.

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