Belgium, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) Russian energy company Gazprom noted on Tuesday that operation of Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline depends on German industry group Siemens.
Gazprom deputy CEO Vitaly Markelov stressed that the pipeline cannot resume operation until Siemens repairs faulty equipment, according to Reuters reporting on Tuesday.
On Friday, Gazprom reported that a gas turbine at the Portovaya compressor station had an oil leak, stressing that the Nord Stream 1 would remain closed until the turbine is repaired.
Answering to reporters who asked when gas flow would resume, Markelov stressed “you should ask Siemens… they have to repair equipment first.”
Siemens commented on Tuesday, stressing that it does not understand Gazprom’s complaint and pointing out that an oil leak was not a reason to close down the pipeline.
“We cannot comprehend this new representation based on the information provided to us over the weekend,” Siemens noted in a statement.
“Therefore, until further notice, our assessment is that the finding communicated to us does not represent a technical reason for stopping operation… such leaks do not normally affect the operation of a turbine and can be sealed on site,” the company concluded.
EU, Moscow exchange accusations
While EU politicians accuse Moscow of weaponising energy supply, Russian officials blame Western sanctions for supply disruptions.
Some EU leaders accused Russia of using energy to sow division in Europe, while Moscow says Western sanctions are comparable to an economic war against Russia.
Moscow also announced plans to retaliate over G7 plans to introduce price caps on Russian energy and noted that the move would not harm Russia unless China and India joined in.
Nikolay Shulginov, Russian Minister of Energy, announced in Vladivostok on Tuesday that Russia plans to ship more fossil fuels to Asia if G7 imposes price caps. He added that Moscow is thinking about setting up an insurer to support oil trade.
Gas flows from Russia to Europe via Ukraine remained stable on Tuesday morning, with Gazprom announcing flow via the Sudzha entry point in Kursk Oblast would remain unchanged compared to Monday.
Eastward flow from Germany to Poland via the Yamal-Europe gas pipeline remained low, according to German operator Gascade.
