According to reports by BILD and the Financial Times, secret negotiations are underway between U.S. and Russian representatives regarding the possible reopening of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, with the U.S. potentially receiving a share of the revenues.
The German newspaper BILD reports that for weeks, discussions have been taking place in Switzerland to explore ways for Russian natural gas to once again flow to Europe via Nord Stream 2. The pipeline, which ends in Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania, suffered extensive damage in the Baltic Sea, with repair costs estimated in the hundreds of millions of euros.
According to BILD, the U.S. is positioning itself as an intermediary in the clandestine Nord Stream 2 talks. “The two powers will sign a supply contract, with the U.S. acting as a mediator overseeing gas deliveries to Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania in exchange for a commission,” the report states.
The talks are reportedly taking place in Steinhausen, Switzerland, home to both Nord Stream 2 and Gazprom’s European offices. Participants allegedly include former U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell and Matthias Warnig, the former CEO of Nord Stream 2, an ex-Stasi intelligence officer, and a key figure in the controversial Climate Protection Foundation—a Russia-funded organization established in Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania in connection with the pipeline.
However, BILD clarifies that the U.S. government is not officially involved at this stage, but American investors are expected to participate. A crucial deadline looms on May 9, 2025, as a Swiss court has given Nord Stream 2’s parent company until then to avoid bankruptcy, which would force the mandatory sale of its pipelines.
“The court cited the complex geopolitical situation, Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration, and strong investor interest as reasons for the extended deadline,” the report adds. However, BILD notes that both Richard Grenell and Matthias Warnig have denied any involvement in such talks, as has the German government.
