Washington backs Russian gas return to Europe via Ukraine

American officials are actively promoting the restart of Russian natural gas flows to Europe through Ukrainian pipelines. The move aims to establish an energy ceasefire before winter arrives.

Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff outlined the plan during September visits to Moscow and Kyiv. The strategy involves selling Russian gas through a US intermediary to bypass current European sanctions. Participants in the talks described the arrangement as a profitable opportunity for American investors.

The proposal gained traction after Ukraine resumed attacks on Russian oil refineries. US leaders believe that reentry into the European market will pressure Vladimir Putin to accept a deal. The plan also ensures Kyiv collects transit fees, providing a direct financial benefit to the government in Kyiv.

To prevent the Kremlin from using the revenue for war efforts, White House officials proposed a specific financial mechanism. Russia would deposit all proceeds from gas sales into an account held in a third country. This structure keeps the funds out of direct Russian control.

Washington has attempted to convince the European Union to support the measure. This effort faces legal hurdles under current EU legislation. That law requires the complete phaseout of Russian natural gas purchases by the end of 2027.

European officials cited by The Wall Street Journal generally reject the idea of Russian gas returning to their markets. Despite this resistance, the US is now considering the resumption of Nord Stream operations. They view the pipeline as a key component of a wider agreement to end the war and resolve disputes between Russia and its European allies.

This energy strategy aligns with earlier US proposals regarding Russian assets. Washington suggested that European countries unfreeze some sovereign assets blocked since the start of the full-scale war. The US would transfer these assets to a financial vehicle under its control to revive peace talks. President Donald Trump announced on October 9 that he had agreed with Putin on supplying Russian diesel fuel to US and global markets.