US Working To Avert Energy Shortage In Europe If Russia Invades Ukraine

"The Biden administration is engaged with European countries and major energy companies to prepare for a scenario in which a Russian invasion of Ukraine leads to a natural gas shortage in Europe, a senior administration official said Tuesday.

The official described the discussions as “contingency planning” if a Russian invasion damages natural gas infrastructure or Russian President Vladimir Putin retaliates against sanctions triggered by an incursion by deliberately cutting off supply to European countries.

“We’re working with countries and companies around the world to ensure the security of supply, to mitigate against price shocks affecting both the American people and the global economy,” the official said, adding that the talks have been ongoing for several weeks."

Morgan Chalfant reports for The Hill January 25, 2022.

SEE ALSO:

"As Ukraine Invasion Looms, Europe Fears Kremlin Will Cut Off Its Gas Supply" (Washington Post)

"Analysis: In Ukraine Crisis, Germany Faces Tough Decisions Over Gas Pipeline" (Reuters)

"Nord Stream 2: Why Russia’s Pipeline To Europe Divides The West" (Aljazeera)

"How Putin's $11 Billion Pipeline Split NATO and the EU at a Time Of Crisis" (CNN)

Source: The Hill, 01/26/2022