(Dan Tri) – Russia’s continued reduction in the amount of gas flowing to Europe not only makes the continent struggle to find alternative supplies, but also makes US officials very worried.
Russia’s gas `card` is causing concern on both sides of the Atlantic (Illustration: Bloomberg).
On July 27, Russia cut the gas flow through the largest pipeline to Germany – Nord Stream 1 – to 20% of maximum capacity.
Russia’s move makes both sides of the Atlantic concerned about serious gas shortages as winter approaches.
US officials say President Joe Biden’s administration is making every effort behind the scenes to keep European allies united in their efforts to deal with Russia, as Moscow continues to cut energy supplies to Russia.
In response to rising concerns in Europe, the White House sent Special Envoy for Global Energy Amos Hochstein to Europe to discuss contingency plans with the US-EU energy working group,
`That is our biggest worry,` US officials admitted about the impact of Russia cutting gas supplies to Europe.
This is also a very important test for European solidarity against the powerful `card` from Russia.
The US and EU have tried to convince the bloc’s members to agree to implement the gas `austerity` strategy when the initial proposal was flatly opposed by many member countries.
The US is also very concerned about the scenario that Europe will lack gas this winter.
Gas prices in Europe increased to 2,300 USD per 1,000m3 on July 27, the highest level since March after Russia officially reduced gas flow through Nord Stream 1.
A National Security Council spokesman called Russia’s latest moves `using natural gas as a political and economic weapon` and vowed to join Europe in ending dependence on energy.