Escalation of the crisis in Ukraine; US efforts to supply gas to Europe
The European Union is dependent on Russia for a third of its gas needs, and US sanctions against Russia could prevent Russia from continuing to supply gas to Europe, IRNA reported on Saturday.
A possible cut-off of Russian gas to Europe could exacerbate the energy crisis caused by the region’s advancing fuel shortage. Rising energy prices in the European region for consumers as well as rising business costs have sparked street protests in some countries.
Two gas industry officials, who did not want to be named, said the State Department had asked the companies in negotiations whether they could supply additional gas if necessary. Officials at the negotiating gas companies have also stated that global gas supplies are limited and that gas is scarce to replace large volumes of Russian gas.
Another official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Amos Hochstein, the State Department’s energy security adviser, was in charge of negotiations with the energy companies, and the State Department did not ask the companies to increase production.
“We explored a range of possibilities and consulted with our partners and allies on all ongoing action,” he added.
This has been done with the European Commission and energy companies. To be more precise, we talked to them about our concerns and consulted about a range of possibilities, but we did not have a request for production.
U.S. officials have also asked companies about their ability to increase supply, whether they can increase exports and, if necessary, delay field maintenance processes.
It is unknown at this time what he will do after leaving the post. But a spokesman for the US National Security Council also confirmed the possible plans without commenting on US talks with energy companies.
“Examining potential wastes (energy) and finding ways to reduce it shows good governance and benchmarking,” he said. The public release of any details in this regard reflects the seriousness with which we are reviewing and preparing to take basic measures with our partners and allies.
Another US security official said the United States had promised Europe that it would support them in the event of a confrontation and energy shortages. Hochstein will consult with large liquefied natural gas suppliers and countries such as Qatar for assistance if needed.
Tensions erupted last month when Russia’s foreign ministry issued a list of demands for the United States and NATO, urging Ukraine not to join NATO and reduce its military presence in Eastern Europe. Moscow has also asked the United States not to build military bases in countries that are former members of the Soviet Union and are not part of NATO.
Washington and its allies have accused Russia of plotting to invade Ukraine after deploying about 100,000 troops along its border.
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