US investment firm eyes stake in Russian gas pipeline to EU via Bulgaria

Elliott Investment Management, one of the most influential US investment firms, is in early-stage talks to acquire a stake in a package of infrastructure assets, including part of the pipeline transporting Russian natural gas to the EU via Bulgaria, reported Ukraine Business News.

The fund is seeking to invest in the Bulgarian section of the TurkStream gas pipeline, which delivers Russian gas to Europe through the Black Sea, as well as in associated infrastructure such as data centres, cable networks and other key assets, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Although discussions are still preliminary, analysts suggest the move could serve as a model for similar deals in Ukraine and Germany, potentially preserving European reliance on Russian energy supplies despite broader efforts to diversify.

“This deal could become a model for similar deals in Ukraine and Germany. This could help maintain Europe’s dependence on Russian gas,” experts noted.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed that the US and Russia are currently discussing energy-related matters, including gas supplies to Europe, amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

In a related development, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, during talks with President Vladimir Putin, stated his intention to oppose the EU’s REPowerEU plan, which calls for the complete phasing out of Russian energy imports. Fico said he would use Slovakia’s veto power should unanimous approval be required among the 27 EU member states.