Gazprom: No Guarantee On Functioning Of Nord Stream-Statement

Russian gas giant Gazprom has released a statement saying that it cannot guarantee the good functioning of the Nord Stream pipeline to Germany following the return of a turbine from maintenance in Canada.

• Statement reads "Gazprom does not possess any documents that would enable Siemens to get the gas turbine engine for the Portovaya CS out of Canada, where that engine is currently undergoing repairs. In these circumstances, it appears impossible to reach an objective conclusion on further developments regarding the safe operation of the Portovaya CS, a facility of critical importance to the Nord Stream gas pipeline."
• Germany has raised concerns that Russia would 'play politics' with the gas supply through Nord Stream following the 40% reduction in supply earlier this month.
• Flows currently suspended as part of routine maintenance, but significant issues for Germany and many other Western European states should Nord Stream not come back online soon.
• Major political headache for EU gov'ts on whether to maintain hardline on Russia sanctions or ease off in order to ensure energy supply through the winter.