US Envoy Richard Grenell Pursues Nord Stream Deal with 'Green' Hydrogen Component in Switzerland
Key Ideas
- Richard Grenell, acting as a US envoy, has been making unofficial trips to Switzerland to negotiate the Nord Stream gas pipeline deal.
- The deal involves the US serving as intermediaries for Russian gas supply through Nord Stream 2 and repurposing Nord Stream 1 for 'green' hydrogen transport.
- American investors are expected to participate in the deal, aiming to resume the pipeline's operation with the assistance of the US President's team.
- Despite the lack of confirmation from Grenell and German officials being unaware of the meetings, plans indicate a potential agreement post-lifting of US sanctions.
The German edition of Bild has reported on Richard Grenell, the US President's Special Envoy for Special Assignments, engaging in unofficial negotiations in Switzerland concerning the Nord Stream gas pipeline deal. It is revealed that Grenell traveled to Switzerland multiple times to explore the potential agreement. The deal proposes the US acting as intermediaries for Russian gas transportation via Nord Stream 2, while also considering repurposing Nord Stream 1 to facilitate the transport of 'green' hydrogen from Finland to Germany. Notably, American investors are set to play a role in the deal, although the US government will not have direct involvement. Despite the secrecy surrounding the talks and Grenell's unconfirmed participation, there are indications of efforts to involve American investors in the pipeline's operation with the assistance of US President Donald Trump's team. Plans suggest a draft agreement with Gazprom awaits the lifting of US sanctions, potentially reshaping the energy landscape in the region.