US gas pipeline raises diplomatic tensions, concerns over EU rules, and ongoing energy supply issues across Eastern Europe.
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An analyst from Independent Commodity Intelligence Service warned about the risks associated with the Vertical Gas Pipeline, following statements by US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle to the Greek energy minister at a dinner that caused international diplomatic tension. Guilfoyle previously stated that the pipeline connecting Greece with Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Moldova, and Ukraine was not just infrastructure but a route for “freedom.” This pipeline has created internal friction within the Romanian government coalition regarding US relations versus focusing on Black Sea gas production. While the US has been discussing European development of this pipeline, capacity delivered through it is falling short of expectations, according to Bulgarian sources despite investments made in Bulgaria. The Romanian Foreign Minister clarified that Guilfoyle’s visit was not for diplomatic negotiations. Meanwhile, agreements were reached in Thessaloniki regarding the pipeline’s expansion into the Balkans. An expert noted that the Vertical Gas Pipeline could create loopholes for bypassing European regulations, pointing out that the Greek state gas company still purchases Russian gas under a long-term agreement with Gazprom until 2026, and that energy carriers transported via the pipeline are not always traceable to their physical origin.
