CDU sparks debate over potential resumption of Russian gas imports
Some CDU politicians are considering the resumption of Russian gas imports once the war concludes. These suggestions have been met with criticism from the Greens and experts, who caution against Germany's reliance on Moscow and the potential jeopardy to the energy transition, reports Deutsche Welle.
In Germany, there is an ongoing debate following statements from CDU politicians who propose the possibility of resuming Russian gas imports after the war in Ukraine ends.
“If one day a just and secure peace [with Ukraine] is established, then we should also be able to discuss purchasing Russian gas again,” stated Jan Heinisch, deputy head of the CDU faction in North Rhine-Westphalia, during an interview with "Politico".
CDU MP from Baden-Württemberg, Thomas Bareiß, took it a step further, commenting on "Handelsblatt" reports about the potential relaunch of Nord Stream 2 as part of a peace arrangement, according to Deutsche Welle. "When peace returns and the weapons between Russia and Ukraine fall silent, relations will normalise, sanctions will be lifted, and of course, gas can start flowing again — perhaps this time through a pipeline under U.S. control," wrote Bareiß on LinkedIn.
Outrage among the Greens and experts
The Greens have expressed their outrage. “A black-red coalition risks causing significant harm to the country if it recklessly threatens the hard-won independence from Russian fossil fuels," stressed Julia Verlinden of the Greens in an interview with DPA. The Ministry of Economy, led by Robert Habeck (Greens), points out that the Nord Stream 2 pipeline is not certified and its use is not legally permissible.
Energy expert Jacopo Maria Pepe warns of the risk of dual dependence: “A pipeline under the control of an American investor is not in Germany's interest. It would be our downfall,” he stated.
He further notes that only a stable and reliable Russia, alongside an agreement within Europe, could in the distant future facilitate discussions about gas imports. However, he emphasises the necessity for further diversification of energy supplies and investments in renewable energy sources and hydrogen.
Germany closes the door on Nord Stream 2
The notion of reactivating the Nord Stream pipelines is highly contentious. Robert Habeck, the German Minister for the Economy, addressed reports of possible discussions regarding the reactivation of Russian gas supplies to Germany. He asserted unequivocally that this would be a misstep.
“Ukrainians are still enduring Russian aggression. Therefore, discussing the potential of Nord Stream 2 or repairing Nord Stream 1 is a completely misguided focus for the discussion,” stated Habeck during a meeting in Brussels.
He warned that Germany must not overlook the consequences of reliance on Russian energy. He reminded that the decisions to construct Nord Stream were made during the CDU/CSU and Social Democrat administrations, which resulted in a dangerous dependency on Russia.
