Revealed: Merkel's Stamped Approval for Gazprom Deal and Nord Stream 2
Gazprom Agreement Approved with Merkel's Subtle Nod of Assent
Get ready to dive into the behind-the-scenes tactics of Germany's ex-Chancellor, Angela Merkel, as internal documents expose her role in green-lighting the controversial sale of German gas storage facilities to Gazprom. Here's the lowdown:
The Gas Crisis Unfolding
Merkel allowed the sale to happen despite warnings and Russia's annexation of Crimea. As a result, Germany plunged into an energy crisis when the storage levels dwindled before the start of the Russian war in Ukraine, leaving the nation gas-starved.
A Stealthy Approach on Nord Stream 2
In 2015, Merkel was informed in writing about the asset swap involving Gazprom and German gas company Wintershall. The documents revealed that Merkel's Chancellery saw no legal basis to prohibit the deal, although it was clear about the risks associated with Gazprom becoming a direct supplier to much of Germany's critical infrastructure.
A Slick Solution and a Quick Fix
To counter any expected backlash from Poland, Ukraine, and the Baltic states, Merkel requested that the deal's background be clearly communicated, emphasizing the lack of legal barriers and commercial rationale. However, the sale raised concerns due to the ongoing political crisis in Ukraine caused by Russia's annexation of Crimea.
A Puppet Show of Neutrality
Though the Merkel administration privately supported the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, they publicly presented it as a purely economic matter, feigning neutrality. The internal report highlighted that Germany could not oppose the project, citing energy demands and the potential for gas transit to Ukraine.
Source: ntv.de, mau
- Gazprom
- Angela Merkel
- Crimea
- Attack on Ukraine
Enrichment Data:
The release of internal documents highlights the extent to which former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and her administration supported the Gazprom deal and the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Here's what you need to know:
Energy Security Risks
- Rising Dependence on Russian Gas: The sale significantly increased Germany's dependence on Russian gas, putting a strain on energy security when Russia halted gas deliveries in 2022 due to EU sanctions[2]. This created a major energy crisis in Germany, particularly in the winter of 2021/2022[5].
- Misjudging Putin's Intentions: Merkel's administration underestimated the likelihood of Putin cutting off gas supplies, believing it was "technically and economically extremely difficult" for Russia to do so[2]. However, this proved incorrect as Russia did indeed halt gas deliveries, impacting Germany's energy security.
Implications for Russia Policy
- A Naive Russia Policy: Merkel's approach has been described as part of a naive German Russia policy that did not fully account for the geopolitical risks involved[5]. This policy was criticized for overlooking potential consequences of deepening energy dependence on Russia, particularly in the context of the annexation of Crimea.
- Expanding Energy Cooperation: There were discussions about pursuing further projects like Nord Stream 3 and 4, indicating a commitment to expanding energy cooperation with Russia[2]. However, these plans were not realized due to subsequent geopolitical developments.
Overall, Merkel's actions shine a light on the complex interplay of economic interests and geopolitical considerations. These decisions have had profound impacts on Germany's energy security and relations with Russia.
- The internal documents reveal that Angela Merkel, the former German Chancellor, had a comprehensive understanding of the employment and industry implications of the Gazprom deal, including the potential employment policy changes in the energy sector, and the financial impacts on both Germany and Russia.
- The revelation of Angela Merkel's approval for the Gazprom deal and Nord Stream 2 has raised concerns in politics and general-news circles, as the deal could potentially alter the energy landscape and employment opportunities across various industries in Germany and the broader European Union.
- As the energy crisis unfolded due to Germany's increased dependence on Russian gas, the issue has gained significance in the community policy discourse, with discussions centering around energy security, employment opportunities, and the potential consequences of such dependency on political and international relations.
