The left-wing energy expert Klaus Ernst is calling for talks with Russia about secure gas supplies and the commissioning of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline – and is thus reaping opposition from his own party. In view of the sharp rise in prices in Germany, it is immoral to maintain the sanctions against Russia as usual, Ernst told the “Rheinische Post” (Wednesday).
“The federal government must now do everything to ensure the energy supply,” said the member of parliament, who is chairman of the energy and climate committee. “You have to talk to Russia about this, despite the war that is illegal under international law put into operation if the gas supply cannot be guaranteed otherwise.”
However, the leader of the Left Party, Dietmar Bartsch, made it clear on Twitter: “The Left and the Left Party are NOT demanding that talks about Nord Stream 2 be started.” The two party chairmen, Janine Wissler and Martin Schirdewan, also objected. “The party congress of Die Linke made clear decisions. We demand a price cap for gas imports, targeted sanctions against oligarchs, the non-commissioning of Nord Stream 2 and the acceleration of the energy transition,” they tweeted identically.
The Baltic Sea pipeline Nord Stream 2 has been completed. However, Germany put the approval process on hold shortly before Russian troops invaded Ukraine. Gas supply via the parallel Nord Stream 1 pipeline has been throttled by Russia. Federal Economics Minister Robert Habeck fears that Russia will soon no longer be sending gas to Western Europe.
As an energy and climate politician, Ernst is controversial in his own ranks. But he is not alone in the left. Former faction leader Sahra Wagenknecht also tweeted: “Economic war ruins us, not Russia! Lift sanctions, get gas via Nord Stream 2 if necessary!”
Ernst also argued: “The energy sanctions benefit Russia. They mean that although less is sold, the proceeds from these sales are higher overall,” said the politician. “A gas supply failure would not only seriously affect citizens, but would also have devastating consequences for industry.”
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