Russia accuses the United States of orchestrating attacks on the TurkStream gas pipeline, escalating tensions in the ongoing energy conflict.
At a Glance
- Russia claims Ukraine targeted TurkStream pipeline infrastructure with drone attacks
- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accuses the U.S. of encouraging Ukrainian sabotage
- The alleged attack comes amid new U.S. sanctions on Russia’s oil sector
- Russia reports downing nine Ukrainian drones near a gas compressor station
- TurkStream remains a crucial route for Russian gas into Europe
Russia Alleges U.S.-Backed Attack on TurkStream Pipeline
The Russian government has leveled serious accusations against the United States, claiming that it is behind recent attempts to sabotage the TurkStream gas pipeline. This critical infrastructure channels Russian gas to European markets via Turkey, making it a significant asset in the complex web of energy geopolitics.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has been particularly vocal about these allegations.
“The U.S. does not tolerate competition in any sphere, including energy. They are recklessly endorsing terrorist activities aimed at undermining the energy stability of the European Union,” Lavrov said.
Russian Defense Ministry says Ukraine launched drone attack on infrastructure of TurkStream gas pipeline, which carries Russian gas to Europe via Türkiye, claiming "goal was to halt gas supplies to European countries"https://t.co/S7EM6k1GD2
— Daily Sabah (@DailySabah) January 14, 2025
Alleged Drone Attack and Russian Defense
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, nine Ukrainian drones targeted a gas compressor station in Gai-Kodzor, near the Black Sea, which is part of the TurkStream pipeline infrastructure.
“All the drones were shot down,” the Defense Ministry stated, adding that there was only minor damage to a gas measuring station.
The Kremlin has labeled this alleged attack as terrorism against its energy infrastructure, drawing parallels to the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline to Germany. Russia has consistently blamed the United States for that incident as well, although concrete evidence remains elusive.
This accusation comes amid an intensifying energy dispute between Russia and Ukraine. On January 1, Ukraine halted Russian gas transit through its territory, further straining the already complex energy dynamics in the region. The situation is compounded by new U.S. sanctions targeting Russia’s oil sector, affecting Gazprom Neft and 180 ships.
“They are encouraging their Ukrainian proxies to disable TurkStream following the sabotage of Nord Stream,” Sergey Lavrov said.
The TurkStream pipeline has gained increased importance as it remains one of the last routes for Russian gas to reach the European Union. This is particularly crucial after Ukraine chose not to renew its gas transit contract. Countries like Hungary still rely on gas delivered via TurkStream, while others such as Austria and Slovakia have secured alternative supplies.
Broader Implications for European Energy Security
The European Union has been actively working to reduce its dependence on Russian gas since Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine began in February 2022. However, the situation remains complex, with some European countries increasing their purchases of Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) despite reduced pipeline imports.
As tensions continue to escalate, the stability of Europe’s energy supply remains uncertain. The alleged attacks on energy infrastructure, coupled with diplomatic disputes and economic sanctions, paint a picture of an increasingly volatile energy landscape that could have far-reaching consequences for global markets and geopolitical relations.