US and Russia discuss Russian gas return to Europe

Although much of Europe has found alternative supplies, some buyers have remained, and the industry's representatives say that the number of buyers can increase as soon as a peace agreement is concluded. As for Russia, the loss of most of the European gas market three years ago was significantly hit the country's economy. It now provides 19% of Europe's demand, compared to 40% previously. It is mainly about liquefied natural gas (PPG) and supply through Turkey with a Turkish flow pipeline.

Washington's involvement in the restoration of gas sales can help Moscow navigate political opposition in most of Europe. The United States will also benefit: there will be some control over how much Russian gas is returning to Europe, two diplomatic sources and a source in the White House reported. In particular, US messenger Steve Witcoff and Putin's investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev discussed gas within peace talks regarding Ukraine, two out of eight sources reported.

Vitcoff spokesman refused to comment when he was asked whether Vitcoff was discussing the issue of Russian gas exports to Europe. "There are no such discussions at this time," the Russian direct investment fund headed by Dmitriev said in the Reuters statement. We will add that among countries that still buy gas in Russia - Hungary and Slovakia. They receive it through the Turkish Stream Pipeline.

Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Spain receive LNG from the Russian company Novatek on long -term contracts. Recall that the Russian budget has lost more than 200 billion rubles in January-February 2025 due to problems with oil and gas. In order to compensate for losses, the Kremlin must either take loans or use money from the National Welfare Fund (FNB). Analysts have explained that the fund has been exhausted, so the situation is difficult.