In Germany, there are fears of a 'gas war' breaking out between European countries.
The scarcity of "green fuels" in Europe could trigger a "gas distribution war" among European countries. According to Die Welt, this is the opinion of Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU – Germany's largest opposition party – expressed in an interview with NOZ.
Gazprom had previously reduced fuel injection through the Nord Stream pipeline because Canada, after repairs, had not returned the turbines manufactured by the German company Siemens. As a representative of the corporation noted, the gas injection equipment for that pipeline was not returned due to Ottawa's sanctions against Russia. Additionally, from July 11th to July 21st, the Nord Stream pipeline will be temporarily shut down for scheduled maintenance.
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Natural gas is a hot topic in Europe right now. (Illustrative image) |
"There is a possibility of serious conflict breaking out within the EU over the distribution of (gas) – similar to what happened in 2015 and 2016, when the refugee crisis occurred," Merz warned.
According to this politician, a unified gas distribution plan needs to be established among EU countries.
At the same time, the head of the CDU preemptively addressed speculation about the possibility of Russia halting gas supplies.
"We shouldn't be talking about such scenarios in public statements. If Russia acts in accordance with the contract, deliveries will resume after the repairs are completed," Merz added.
Cutting off gas supplies from Russia.
The cuts in Russian gas supplies this year are due to the suspension of supplies via the Yamal-Europe pipeline in May, reduced gas flow through two other main pipelines – Nord Stream and the Ukrainian gas transit system – as well as disruptions to supplies via the Turkish Stream pipeline due to technical problems.
After Russia launched a special operation to protect Donbass from Ukrainian nationalists, the United States and the European Union imposed sanctions on Moscow. Many countries announced freezes on Russian assets, and calls to abandon Russian energy grew louder. These measures, in turn, dealt a severe blow to Western countries – causing hyperinflation and sharp increases in food and fuel prices.
