Putin Ally Lobbies US for Nord Stream 2 Restart

Reports indicate that Matthias Warnig, a close ally of Vladimir Putin and former head of Nord Stream 2, is lobbying for the pipeline's revival with the support of US investors, symbolizing a significant shift in US-Russia relations under President Trump. Despite Trump's prior opposition to Nord Stream 2, secret negotiations, allegedly involving American businessmen with ties to Trump, aim to restart the pipeline, contingent on the lifting of US sanctions and a ceasefire in Ukraine. This initiative is seen as a strategic opportunity to enhance US influence over European energy supplies while fostering economic ties with Russia. The talks have raised concerns among EU officials due to potential ramifications on European security and unity. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, partially damaged in a 2022 sabotage, remains inactive, and any revival would require significant diplomatic and logistical hurdles. The Financial Times and other sources highlight that while some involved in the talks deny participation, discussions are reportedly ongoing with significant interest from US investors.