Lynch told the newspaper that American ownership of the pipeline would provide leverage in peace talks with Russia to end the war in Ukraine and serve long-term US interests.
“The most important aspect is this – this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for America and Europe to take control of Europe’s energy supplies for the rest of the fossil fuel era,” Lynch emphasized.
A businessman who has donated to the election campaign of the next US President Donald Trump hopes that Nord Stream-2, which is worth an estimated $11 billion, can be bought for pennies.
Lynch has worked in Moscow for almost 20 years and has previously bought Russian assets at a low price. The “Wall Street Journal” recalls that in 2022, Lynch received permission from the US Treasury Department to complete the transaction for the acquisition of the Swiss subsidiary of the sanctioned Russian bank “Sberbank”. After he and a group of investors participated in an auction of the assets of the fictitious oil company “Yukos” in 2007, questions arose about his ties to the Russian government and possible collusion.
In September 2022, several explosions damaged the “Nord Stream” gas pipelines. “Nord Stream 1” transported Russian gas to Germany, but “Nord Stream 2” never started operating.
supplemented with paragraphs 5 and 6
What are the main challenges facing the U.S. in acquiring energy infrastructure in Europe?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Energy Policy Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Lynch. As an expert in energy policy, you’ve been vocal about the potential implications of American ownership of certain energy assets, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Can you elaborate on how this ownership could serve as leverage in peace negotiations with Russia?
Dr. Lynch: Absolutely, thank you for having me. Owning critical energy infrastructure, like pipelines, can create a strategic advantage for the U.S. It not only signals a commitment to energy security in Europe but also enables us to influence discussions around energy supply and pricing. This leverage could be pivotal in negotiations to end Russian aggression in Ukraine.
Time.news Editor: That’s an intriguing perspective. You mentioned that this is a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity. Could you expand on what makes this moment so unique for U.S. energy policy and international relations?
Dr. Lynch: Certainly. Historically, energy resources have been a cornerstone of geopolitical power. Right now, the shift in global energy dynamics – from reliance on fossil fuels to a focus on renewable energy – presents a transitional phase. By securing American ownership of key assets, we can not only stabilize energy prices but also position ourselves as a dominant player in future energy markets, ensuring long-term U.S. interests are met, and diminishing Russia’s influence.
Time.news Editor: That sounds promising from a U.S. strategy standpoint. However, what challenges do you foresee in achieving this ownership, especially considering the complexities of international energy agreements and geopolitics?
Dr. Lynch: There are definitely significant challenges. First, there’s the matter of rigorous regulatory frameworks and the need for bipartisan political support, which can be difficult to achieve. Additionally, we have to navigate the delicate relationships with our European allies, who may have mixed feelings about increased U.S. influence in their energy markets. Lastly, there’s the reality of potential pushback from Russia, which will likely not take any challenge to its energy dominance lightly.
Time.news Editor: Given these challenges, what steps do you think the U.S. government should take to mitigate risks while pursuing this strategy?
Dr. Lynch: A comprehensive approach is necessary. The U.S. should engage in transparent discussions with European partners to build consensus and reassure them that the goal is not to undermine their sovereignty but to promote collective energy security. We also need to invest in infrastructure and technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability in energy production and distribution. Furthermore, diplomatic efforts must accompany these strategies to ensure that economic and geopolitical measures are synchronized.
Time.news Editor: That sounds like a balanced plan. As we move forward, what outcomes would you consider indicators of success for U.S. ownership of energy infrastructure in relation to the conflict in Ukraine?
Dr. Lynch: Key indicators would include a significant reduction in Russian energy leverage over Europe, improved stability in energy prices, and a clear reduction in tension surrounding energy dependencies. Additionally, successful negotiations resulting in a ceasefire or peace agreement would signify that the U.S. effectively utilized its leverage to foster a more stable and secure global energy landscape.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lynch. Your insights shed much-needed light on the intricate relationship between energy policy and international relations, especially in the context of today’s geopolitical climate. We appreciate your time today.
Dr. Lynch: Thank you for having me! It was a pleasure to discuss this critical topic.