Von der Leyen attempts to keep the US on Ukraine's side?

In a phone call with President-elect Trump, the European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen suggested that Europe could transfer its remaining LNG business with Russia to the USA.   

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

Photo: European Parliament/CC/Wiki

The EU has not achieved its goal of a full embargo on the import of liquified natural gas (LNG) from Russia. One pipeline provides gas to Hungary, Italy and Austria under a contract with Gazprom, a contract which, however, expires on 31 December. 

Von der Leyen appears to be attempting to pre-empt any drastic moves by Trump - either in terms of "switching sides" in the war or a protectionist tariff war.

She had earlier offered her "warm congratulations" to Trump:

I warmly congratulate Donald J. Trump.

The EU and the US are more than just allies.

We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens.

So let's work together on a strong transatlantic agenda that keeps delivering for them.

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) November 6, 2024

 Her offer suggests the US has business interest in helping the EU further reduce its energy dependence on Russia.

Sources: Rzeczpospolita, Reuters

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