Three people familiar with the matter told Reuters that German officials were quietly preparing for any sudden disruption to Russian gas supplies with an emergency package that could include taking control of critical companies.
Preparations led by the Ministry of Economy show a state of high alert over the supply of gas, which is driving Europe’s largest economy and is fundamental to steel, plastics and automobile production.
Russian gas accounted for 55% of Germany’s imports last year, and Berlin is under pressure to dissolve a trade relationship that critics say helped finance Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Germany has said it wants to get rid of Russian supplies, but expects to rely heavily on Moscow for gas by mid-2024.
It remains unclear whether an abrupt stop will occur, and officials said Germany wanted to avoid an escalation, as it had already backed sanctions on coal and oil to Moscow in support of the European embargo.
But now they fear that Russia might unilaterally cut off the gas flow, and if that happens they want to deal with it.
Officials said while a broad framework is in place and the government is committed to helping, details on how to put the plan into action are currently being discussed.
Asked about the measures, the German Ministry of Economy drew attention to the statements of its boss, Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, that the country has made “intensive efforts” to reduce Russia’s energy use in recent weeks.
source: Noticias
