CRIME SEQUENCE RECONSTRUCTION
(AUGUST 2022)
PART 9/16
(BASED ON NORDSTREAM FILES MASTER DATA-FILE)
...previously: PART 8 (JULY 2022)
SUMMARY
Part 9 of larger series examining the Nord Stream pipeline incidents.
Exploring DATA from August 2022, contextualizing the incident
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Primary Suspect: The investigation identifies elements of the UK government as the primary suspect for the sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines.
Speedy diversification, securing own imports and production: The UK actively sought to diversify its energy sources away from Russia, significantly reducing its reliance on Russian energy while backing collective actions.
UK sabotages Nord Stream AG flows by not delivering documents for speedy return of Nordstream turbines.
Margin Call against European Energy Utilities: Energy market dynamics, such as gas supply interruptions, price hikes, and ongoing discussions around energy security, provide significant context for the events.
NPT: Notable are Liz Truss's comments regarding nuclear weapons and her actions during her tenure as Foreign Secretary, which are considered pivotal.
Germany calls for reopening pipelines as economical crisis continues on high energy prices.
Worsening security situation in Baltic sea: There was an uptick in military activity in the Baltic Sea, including naval exercises and deployments by both the US and UK during August 2022.
Russian defense posture: In response to the escalating situation, Russia bolstered its defense posture in Kaliningrad and executed anti-sabotage training exercises.
UK beefs up own security: The UK rolled out a new maritime security strategy aimed at addressing both physical and cyber threats. UK trains Ukrainian specialists.
Events in chronological order grouped - AUGUST 2022
UK SPEARHEADS G7 EFFORTS TO DIVERSIFY FROM RUSSIAN ENERGY (002, 003, 010, 031, 044, 081, 106, 107, 163)
On 2 August 2022 Energy security amid Russia’s increased weaponization of energy: G7 foreign ministers’ statement. G7 foreign ministers and the EU High Representative issued a statement about energy security and resilience following Russia's illegal war against Ukraine.
We further condemn Russian attempts to weaponise its energy exports and use energy as a tool of geopolitical coercion. Russia is therefore not a reliable energy supplier. We will act in solidarity and close coordination to mitigate the impact of supply disruptions on economies and citizens globally and in our countries, especially in order to protect vulnerable groups. We are working to ensure Russia does not exploit its position as an energy producer to profit from its aggression at the expense of vulnerable countries. We will build on our recent actions to secure energy supplies, stabilise markets and mitigate the increases in energy prices driven by Russia’s actions and extraordinary market conditions. This includes our efforts to reduce our demand for Russian energy and our support for International Energy Agency voluntary collective actions. We remain committed to energy and resource diversification and promote competitive, reliable, affordable energy markets that are transparent and adhere to high environmental, social, and governance standards...
We will further reduce our reliance on civil nuclear and related goods from Russia, and assist countries seeking to diversify their supplies. In all these actions, we will support each other and coordinate our actions to preserve G7 unity and reinforce our collective energy security and resilience. We welcome efforts by partners with the aim of replenishing gas reserves and increasing energy security and resilience, amid Russia’s increased weaponization of energy. At the same time, we will continue our efforts with partners around the world to make energy savings and efficiency a global priority.
On 19 August 2022 UK’s Truss Stands by Vow to ‘Call Out’ Putin at G-20
LIZ TRUSS AND THE TREATY ON THE NON-PROLIFERATION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS NPT (091, 096)
On 1 August 2022 Foreign Secretary Liz Truss' statement following the GB US FRA Joint Statement at the opening of the 10th Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons Review Conference
On 4 August 2022 Campaigners have again released photographs of a Ministry of Defence convoy on the M6 – something they say ‘terrifies’ them. Members of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament say they believe trucks making up the convoy were transporting nuclear warheads.
On 23 August 2022 Truss’ statement on nuclear weapons "lowers bar" for their use — Russian MFA. On August 23, Truss vowed "She would be ready to use nuclear weapons if need be"
On 24 August 2022 The foreign secretary, Liz Truss, says that she is not afraid to use nuclear weapons if she becomes prime minister.
On 1 August 2022 The Coast Guard of Western Finland and the Coast Guard of Sweden intensified the monitoring of pleasure boat traffic between the two countries in the Åland Sea on July 29-31, 2022. The aim of the operation was to enhance the exchange of the situational picture between the authorities.
During two days, more than 100 boats were inspected. As expected, most of the inspected boats sailed under the Finnish or Swedish flag, but other nationalities were also encountered. (214)
During two days, more than 100 boats were inspected. As expected, most of the inspected boats sailed under the Finnish or Swedish flag, but other nationalities were also encountered. (214)
On 3 August 2022 - USA: Kearsarge ARG, 22nd MEU return to the Baltic Sea. Elements of the ARG-MEU include flagship Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), and Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), along with accompanying Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51). The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), with embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), returned to the Baltic Sea, August 2, to strengthen interoperability with key NATO allies and partners.
On 5 August 2022 USS Kearsarge joins exercise in Baltic Sea. The USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) arrived for a three-day port visit in Helsinki (Finland). The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), with embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), will join the Finnish Navy in the upcoming exercises in the Northern Baltic Sea, which are scheduled to be held in the period 8-19 August 2022.
BALTIC PIPELINE (127, 225)
BALTIC PIPELINE (127, 225)
On 3 August 2022 Baltic Pipe opening two days early (27-09-2022). On Tuesday, Deputy Minister Gróbarczyk announced that the completion and opening of Baltic Pipe would take place on 29 September. It now appears that this will happen even earlier. The good news is that Baltic Pipe will be ready in the near future. But the better news is that it will even be two days sooner than I presented this morning. The delivery date is 27 September! – informed Deputy Minister Marek Gróbarczyk on Twitter.
PENNY MORDAUNT STEPS DOWN FROM RACE BACKS LIZ TRUSS
On 5 August 2022 Liz Truss visits Portsmouth at Queens Hotel, Southsea on Friday 5th August 2022.
On 5 August 2022 Liz Truss has arrived on the Isle of Wight in a bid to secure votes from local Conservative members. Meeting with Penny Mordaunt.
Secrecy has surrounded the visit and there has been no press call 5 August 2022 Liz Truss beams with joy as she visits world's biggest Union flag - see the pictures.
On 6 August 2022 We need a Prime Minister who can face up to the twin tasks of growing our economy and standing up to the likes of Russia and China
On 9 August 2022 Johnson ‘absolutely certain’ next PM will offer more help on paying bills
UK TOXIC GAS EXPORTS
On 8 August 2022 Energy companies urge UK to detoxify gas exports to EU
Businesses say ‘hazardous’ contaminants could force shutdown of subsea pipelines as supply crisis intensifies
Energy companies have urged the UK to take “urgent” action over the amount of “toxic” and “hazardous” contaminants in the gas it is processing for export to the EU.
They warned the problem could force critical subsea pipelines to be shut down this winter as mainland Europe struggles to replace the gas it usually buys from Russia.
To help these efforts, the UK has been processing large volumes of liquefied natural gas arriving at its ports from countries including the US and Qatar. This is then moved through Britain’s energy system before it is exported via subsea pipelines from Bacton in Norfolk to Belgium and the Netherlands.
But several energy companies warned that in recent months gas delivered to UK terminals has persistently been “contaminated” with high levels of materials that are often “radioactive” and can burn when they come into contact with the air.
Britain has been maximising exports to the EU this summer because in winter it relies on gas flowing back from mainland Europe, which has superior storage facilities, to meet demand at peak times.
National Grid has argued that if EU storage facilities are not filled enough this summer, pressure to continue sending gas from Britain will be “increased and sustained” during the winter. This could affect the UK’s security of supply.
UKRAINIAN CREDITORS DISCUSSING POSTPONEMENT OF LOAN PAYMENTS (085)
On 5 August 2022 Liz Truss has arrived on the Isle of Wight in a bid to secure votes from local Conservative members. Meeting with Penny Mordaunt.
Secrecy has surrounded the visit and there has been no press call 5 August 2022 Liz Truss beams with joy as she visits world's biggest Union flag - see the pictures.
On 6 August 2022 We need a Prime Minister who can face up to the twin tasks of growing our economy and standing up to the likes of Russia and China
On 9 August 2022 Johnson ‘absolutely certain’ next PM will offer more help on paying bills
UK TOXIC GAS EXPORTS
On 8 August 2022 Energy companies urge UK to detoxify gas exports to EU
Businesses say ‘hazardous’ contaminants could force shutdown of subsea pipelines as supply crisis intensifies
Energy companies have urged the UK to take “urgent” action over the amount of “toxic” and “hazardous” contaminants in the gas it is processing for export to the EU.
They warned the problem could force critical subsea pipelines to be shut down this winter as mainland Europe struggles to replace the gas it usually buys from Russia.
To help these efforts, the UK has been processing large volumes of liquefied natural gas arriving at its ports from countries including the US and Qatar. This is then moved through Britain’s energy system before it is exported via subsea pipelines from Bacton in Norfolk to Belgium and the Netherlands.
But several energy companies warned that in recent months gas delivered to UK terminals has persistently been “contaminated” with high levels of materials that are often “radioactive” and can burn when they come into contact with the air.
Britain has been maximising exports to the EU this summer because in winter it relies on gas flowing back from mainland Europe, which has superior storage facilities, to meet demand at peak times.
National Grid has argued that if EU storage facilities are not filled enough this summer, pressure to continue sending gas from Britain will be “increased and sustained” during the winter. This could affect the UK’s security of supply.
UKRAINIAN CREDITORS DISCUSSING POSTPONEMENT OF LOAN PAYMENTS (085)
On 12 August 2022 Ukraine's creditors agree 2-year freeze on $20 billion overseas debt
Ukraine's overseas creditors backed its request for a two-year freeze on payments on almost $20 billion in international bonds, a regulatory filing showed on Wednesday, a move that will allow the war-ravaged country to avoid a messy debt default.
TURBINES, INCOTERMS (171, 029, 104, 152, 161)
On 4 August 2022 Deadlock over Nord Stream turbine as Russia says only one working. It added three other turbines also needed major overhauls, and only one of six main gas turbines was currently working at the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, excluding an emergency spare. That means it can pump no more than 33 million cubic meters of gas per day
On 12 August 2022 Russia reiterates demand for Nord Stream gas turbine sanctions assurances
Russia has again demanded official confirmation that turbines used to flow gas in the Nord Stream pipeline to Germany would not fall foul of EU, Canadian, or UK sanctions.
In a statement Aug. 11, the Russian embassy in Germany said that, until state-controlled Gazprom received the necessary documentation, it could not take delivery of repaired turbines from Siemens Energy or send other units for repair.
Nord Stream is currently running at just 20% of capacity, with only one turbine operational capping flows at 33 million cu m/d.
One other repaired turbine -- turbine 073 -- has been returned from Canada after maintenance work and a sanctions waiver approved by Ottawa, but the turbine remains in a Siemens facility in Mulheim, Germany.
"As for the turbine repaired in Canada and currently located in Mulheim, its delivery to Germany does not comply with the terms of the contract," the embassy said.
"Russia needs official confirmation that this and other turbines, which require routine maintenance and repair, will not fall under the sanctions of the EU, Canada and the UK," it said.
"If the delivery was carried out from Canada directly to Russia, as it was originally assumed, then we would not have to assess the impact of EU sanctions and take into account the possible risks associated with the blocking of the turbine in an EU country," he said.
He added that, since the contract supplier was a UK-based Siemens unit, Industrial Turbine Company Ltd, then the requirements of UK law also apply to it, including possible sanctions restrictions.
On 20 August 2022 Gazprom to halt Nord Stream gas for 3-day maintenance. Gas flows to Europe to be disrupted starting August 31.
On 30 August 2022 Gazprom suspends gas supplies to Engie due to non-payment for July supplies Further supplies of natural gas to a foreign buyer are prohibited under the presidential decree if the buyer fails to pay in full within the payment term under the contract
On August 31, 2022 Gazprom to halt Nord Stream gas for 3-day maintenance. Gas flows to Europe to be disrupted starting August 31.
On August 31, 2022 Gazprom to halt Nord Stream gas for 3-day maintenance. Gas flows to Europe to be disrupted starting August 31.
On August 31, 2022 Nord Stream works on 20% due to sanctions on Russia - Miller. Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller shared on Wednesday, during a televised appearance on Rossiya 1 TV Channel, that sanctions against Russia led to the Nord Stream operating at the capacity of only 20%. "Our opponents have already issued such a large number of sanctions documents that they have created a situation [where] they themselves got entangled in these sanctions and fell into their own sanctions trap," Miller asserted.
On August 31, 2022 Nord Stream works on 20% due to sanctions on Russia - Miller.
Western opponents have fallen into their own sanctions trap, Gazprom CEO Miller said. "Our opponents have already issued such a large number of sanctions documents that they have created a situation [where] they themselves got entangled in these sanctions and fell into their own sanctions trap," Miller asserted. Miller previously warned that gas prices in Europe could exceed $4,000 per 1,000 cubic meters during the second half of 2022.
On August 31, 2022 Nord Stream works on 20% due to sanctions on Russia - Miller.
Western opponents have fallen into their own sanctions trap, Gazprom CEO Miller said. "Our opponents have already issued such a large number of sanctions documents that they have created a situation [where] they themselves got entangled in these sanctions and fell into their own sanctions trap," Miller asserted. Miller previously warned that gas prices in Europe could exceed $4,000 per 1,000 cubic meters during the second half of 2022.
On 7 August 2022 ‘Norway first!’ Panic as UK's BIGGEST importer of gas poised to cut supplies off. NORWAY, a major energy supplier for Britain, is facing growing pressure to cut off gas and electricity exports to the rest of the world.
Norway is responsible for over 60 percent of the total gas demand, being the single biggest supplier of gas to the UK.
Given that most interconnectors are in the south of Norway, both ends of the country face extreme disparities when it comes to energy prices. While electricity in northern households can cost €2 per megawatt (£1.69), families in the southwest of the country can pay a staggering €550 per megawatt (£464).
This has led to Oslo’s government facing pressure from campaigners, calling on Norway to cut itself off from Europe.
The cost of gas and electricity in the UK is at an eye-watering level, despite the fact that Britain imports very little energy from Russia. This is because both the UK and its major gas supplier Norway, are part of the open market, meaning that prices in the rest of Europe affect the UK. Britain is connected to Norway via a 450-mile interconnector that joins Blyth, Northumberland to Kvilldal power station through cables that run through the North Sea.
On 8 August 2022 Norway threatens to ration electricity in fresh blow for UK and European energy supplies. Norway has drawn up plans to ration electricity exports in a move that has heightened fears of energy shortages in the UK and Europe this winter....
On 11 August 2022 Boris Johnson Meets Energy Firms as UK Winter Crisis Looms (040, 041)
On 11 August 2022 Boris Johnson Meets Energy Firms as UK Winter Crisis Looms (040, 041)
On 15 August 2022 Norway makes record profits from war. After the summer break, the Chancellor's first trip goes north. As the second largest gas supplier to Germany and the EU, Norway is benefiting from the Russian war of aggression. The country has the largest foreign trade surplus ever, but the pipelines are reaching their limits.
From January to April of this year, Norway exported almost 15 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Germany, almost twice as much as in the same period of 2021. The Scandinavian country was thus able to replace part of the imports from Russia. Three out of seven Norwegian export pipelines lead to Germany.
The country is currently delivering more gas to the EU than ever before. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Norwegian Ministry of Energy adjusted the production licenses for three large offshore fields so that even more natural gas can be produced there. However, the production and pipeline capacities are currently being utilized to the full and are reaching their limits.
On 16 August 2022 Norway agrees to sustain maximum gas deliveries to Germany
Norway has agreed to continue to export as much natural gas as it can to Germany in order to help reduce fossil fuel dependence on Russia, the two countries' leaders told journalists on 15 August in Norway’s capital Oslo.
Norway would be delivering “the maximum of what we can” deliver, prime minister Jonas Gahr Store said during an official visit to the country by German chancellor Olaf Scholz. “But we cannot just politically decide to deliver more,” Store said, adding that “anything that can be turned into energy will be turned into energy.”
Chancellor Scholz said Germany is “thankful” for Norway’s contribution and its readiness to expand exports “as much as possible.” Scholz said Germany and the Scandinavian country would further deepen their energy and climate cooperation across the board, including offshore wind power, solar energy, hydrogen and carbon capture and storage (CCS).
On 17 August 2022 Germany’s Uniper on the ‘brink of insolvency’ after €12bn loss
German utility Uniper reported a €12.3bn first-half loss, saying it had become a “pawn” in the Ukraine conflict and had been pushed to the “brink of insolvency” by a huge drop in Russian gas deliveries.
The loss by Europe’s biggest importer of Russian gas is one of the largest by a German company, eclipsing Bayer’s €10.5bn loss in 2020.
Uniper chief executive Klaus-Dieter Maubach warned on Wednesday that Europe faced a grim energy outlook this winter, saying the gas supply crisis made it “almost impossible” to predict the group’s performance in the second half of the year.
“We do assume that Gazprom, if it wanted to, could considerably increase its gas deliveries through Nord Stream 1,” he said, adding that gas prices had gone haywire because of “concerns about the reliability of energy supply”.
On 27 August 2022 Norway adopts EU's updated sanctions against Russia
The European Council’s seventh package with restrictive measures on Russia was adopted on July 25. Now, Oslo joins and the set of incorporated sanctions became part of Norwegian law on Friday, August 26.
Norway has followed all EU sanctions with exception of larger fishing vessels sailing under Russian flag that still can call on ports in Norway.
Ukraine has called on Norway to remove those exceptions, but Oslo argues it is important for maintaining the bilateral regulations of marine resources in the Barents Sea.
The two countries have for decades managed to preserve sustainable stocks of fish, especially cod..
UK INTRODUCES NEW MARITIME SECURITY STRATEGY (010, 214, 081)
The European Council’s seventh package with restrictive measures on Russia was adopted on July 25. Now, Oslo joins and the set of incorporated sanctions became part of Norwegian law on Friday, August 26.
Norway has followed all EU sanctions with exception of larger fishing vessels sailing under Russian flag that still can call on ports in Norway.
Ukraine has called on Norway to remove those exceptions, but Oslo argues it is important for maintaining the bilateral regulations of marine resources in the Barents Sea.
The two countries have for decades managed to preserve sustainable stocks of fish, especially cod..
UK INTRODUCES NEW MARITIME SECURITY STRATEGY (010, 214, 081)
On 10 August 2022 Royal Navy First Sea Lord, @FirstSeaLord: "@VAdmCGardner is to head the Submarine Delivery Agency. He brings over three decades of naval experience and a track record of leadership and delivery to this vital organisation for the RN and Defence."
On 11 August 2022 The U.K.´s Defence Secretary Ben Wallace spoke at a news conference following the international Donors Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark. He said, "Russia are starting to fail in many areas - they are unlikely to ever succeed in occupying Ukraine, their invasion has faltered and has been constantly remodified."
On 17 August 2022 UK introduces "New maritime security strategy" to address physical and cyber threats. UK launched a 5-year strategy to enhance maritime technology, innovation and security and reduce environmental damage.... The new strategy redefines maritime security as upholding laws, regulations and norms to deliver a free, fair and open maritime domain... In addition, to enhance the UK’s maritime security knowledge, the government has established the "UK Centre for Seabed Mapping (UK CSM)", which seeks to enable the UK’s world-leading seabed mapping sector to collaborate to collect more and better data.
RUSSIA STRENGTHENS DEFENSE OF KALININGRAD
On 5 August 2022 Russian Navy Project 885 Yasen-M class nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine RFS Severodvinsk (K-560) northbound under the Storebaelt Bridge in Denmark
On 18 August 2022 - Russia deploys three MiG-31 fighter jets armed with nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles on 'high alert' to its European enclave of Kaliningrad in fresh threat to NATO
On 19 August 2022 Russian Combat swimmers of the Baltic Naval Base practiced diving descents with propulsion devices. Servicemen of the detachment for countering underwater sabotage forces and means (PDSS) of the Baltic Naval Base carried out diving descents to great depths and conducted training to improve their underwater combat skills.
During the training, the servicemen practiced diving descents to depths of 20 to 30 meters and elements of underwater orientation using propulsion systems, and also searched for possible sabotage means, underwater hiding places and caches in the area of the naval forces' basing. In addition, the fighters of the PDSS counteraction detachment fired from special underwater pistols SPP-1 and special underwater automatic rifles APS.
All events were carried out as part of the combat training course for anti-PDSS units, with strict adherence to safety requirements during shooting and diving.
The exercise involved more than 20 servicemen, a multi-purpose anti-sabotage boat, high-speed boats, and special equipment for monitoring the underwater situation.
On 24 August 2022 Large-scale anti-terror training conducted in the Baltic Fleet
On 24 August 2022 A planned tactical exercise with combat swimmers of the Baltic Fleet was conducted in the Gulf of Finland. During the training, the servicemen worked out various scenarios for repelling attacks on naval units and military facilities of central subordination.
On 6 September 2022 Russia summarizes: "In August, more than 100 anti-terrorist exercises were conducted in the Baltic Fleet. In August, more than 100 training sessions with counter-terrorism units were conducted in the Baltic Fleet (BF) formations and military units.
The servicemen practiced blocking and destroying the enemy during his attacks on various military units, learned to provide first aid and transport the wounded, and improved their mine clearance skills." The amount of exercises in September grew substantially along worsening security situation. (110)
The servicemen practiced blocking and destroying the enemy during his attacks on various military units, learned to provide first aid and transport the wounded, and improved their mine clearance skills." The amount of exercises in September grew substantially along worsening security situation. (110)
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW): The Poseidon is equipped for long-range ASW, ASUW, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and search and rescue missions. Norway's strategic location necessitates a strong maritime patrol capability to monitor naval activities and to ensure national security.
On 8 August 2022 Today, the Chief of Military Region South and I together with Station Chief Ks Malmö received the Defense Ministers of Sweden, Denmark and Norway on board KBV001.
On 18 August 2022 - NOR: #Harstad/Narvik Airport #Norwegian Sea, #NoCALLSIGN #4781A1 Norway Air Force, P-8A Poseidon
On 20 August 2022 U.S. Navy awards Boeing High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability, or HAAWC, full-rate production contract. Carried on board the P-8A multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft, the advanced weapon system will meet the Navy’s operational need to conduct anti-submarine warfare from higher altitudes and longer distances.
On 20 August 2022 U.S. Navy awards Boeing High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability, or HAAWC, full-rate production contract. Carried on board the P-8A multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft, the advanced weapon system will meet the Navy’s operational need to conduct anti-submarine warfare from higher altitudes and longer distances.
On 24 August 2022 "#Harstad #Norwegian Sea, #NoCALLSIGN #47819E Norway Air Force P-8A Poseidon"
GERMANY: REOPEN PIPELINES!
On 19 August 2022 Reopen Nord Stream 2 to ease our energy crisis, senior German politician urges. A senior figure within one of Germany's ruling parties has said the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline with Russia should be reopened, in a sign of an emerging rift over energy supplies as winter approaches.
On 19 August 2022 FDP lawmaker slammed for Nord Stream 2 comments. Wolfgang Kubicki of the FDP faced criticism from his own party and the government after proposing the opening of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline from Russia. He said there was "no sensible reason" to keep the pipeline closed.
NORDBALT (220)
On 19 August 2022 Lithuania-Sweden power link maintenance put off due to electricity market situation. Lithuania is forced to postpone repairs to the NordBalt electricity pipeline that runs along the bottom of the Baltic Sea The annual preventive repair of the cable connecting the electricity grids of Lithuania and Sweden has been postponed due to difficult market situation, Vilnius said. By closing NordBalt, the country could exacerbate the problem of electricity shortage. On Tuesday, August 16, Lithuania has already faced a galloping increase in energy prices. (220)
On 19 August 2022 - UK/US: Naval Chiefs discuss cooperation
The United States Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Admiral Mike Gilday met with the First Sea Lord and the United Kingdom Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sir Ben Key on Friday.
Remarks of US Naval Chief:
The US Chief of Naval Operations said, “Collaborating, sharing information, and demonstrating a united front, will only strengthen our ability to prevail in conflict and bolster integrated deterrence against adversaries.”
“The strength of our alliances and partnerships has never been more important and will continue to be imperative to take on the challenges of the 21st century,” Admiral Gilday added. Further, he said, “I look forward to the continued cooperation between our two countries and our two navies.”
Moreover, the recently nominated UK Naval Attache to the USA, Roger Readwin also met the US Chief of Naval Staff on his visit to the Tech Bridge.
On 21 August 2022 Chief of Naval Operations Visits Spain and United Kingdom, Meets with Sailors and Focuses on Partnerships. "Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday and his wife, Linda Gilday visited Spain and the United Kingdom, Aug. 16-21, to meet with Sailors, government and military leaders."
The United States Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Admiral Mike Gilday met with the First Sea Lord and the United Kingdom Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sir Ben Key on Friday.
Remarks of US Naval Chief:
The US Chief of Naval Operations said, “Collaborating, sharing information, and demonstrating a united front, will only strengthen our ability to prevail in conflict and bolster integrated deterrence against adversaries.”
“The strength of our alliances and partnerships has never been more important and will continue to be imperative to take on the challenges of the 21st century,” Admiral Gilday added. Further, he said, “I look forward to the continued cooperation between our two countries and our two navies.”
Moreover, the recently nominated UK Naval Attache to the USA, Roger Readwin also met the US Chief of Naval Staff on his visit to the Tech Bridge.
On 21 August 2022 Chief of Naval Operations Visits Spain and United Kingdom, Meets with Sailors and Focuses on Partnerships. "Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday and his wife, Linda Gilday visited Spain and the United Kingdom, Aug. 16-21, to meet with Sailors, government and military leaders."
On 19 August 2022 Andrei Yermak and Valery Zaluzhny had a telephone conversation with Tony Radakin and Stephen Lovegrove. Supporting Ukraine, defeating Russia, punishing the aggressor for war crimes is our goal.
On 24 August 2022 ‘Ukraine can and will win this war,’ says Boris Johnson as he visits Kyiv on Ukraine’s Independence Day
On 24 August 2022 Ukraine is a war zone. And a place Boris Johnson can get away from it all.
So Boris Johnson popped up in Ukraine on Wednesday.
In comments made next to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Mariyinsky Palace, Johnson said Ukraine “can and will win this war.” Russian President Vladimir Putin had been “insane” to invade, he said, and added: “If we’re paying in our energy bills for the evils of Vladimir Putin, the people of Ukraine are paying in their blood.”
A street on the outskirts of Odessa was relabeled “Boris Johnson Street.”
Ukraine will be a major part of Johnson’s legacy.
On 24 August 2022 "Britons must endure ‘short-term pain’ of energy bills so Putin is defeated", minister warns. Armed forces minister James Heappey admitted that a ‘really expensive winter lies ahead’ for many UK families
Millions of households in Britain must be ready for the “short-term pain” of high energy bills so Vladimir Putin is defeated in Ukraine and future threats from Russia and China are defused, a minister warned on Wednesday.
Armed forces minister James Heappey admitted that a “really expensive winter lies ahead” for many families in the UK and stressed the new Prime Minister’s “first priority” would be a bigger support package.
So Boris Johnson popped up in Ukraine on Wednesday.
In comments made next to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Mariyinsky Palace, Johnson said Ukraine “can and will win this war.” Russian President Vladimir Putin had been “insane” to invade, he said, and added: “If we’re paying in our energy bills for the evils of Vladimir Putin, the people of Ukraine are paying in their blood.”
A street on the outskirts of Odessa was relabeled “Boris Johnson Street.”
Ukraine will be a major part of Johnson’s legacy.
On 24 August 2022 "Britons must endure ‘short-term pain’ of energy bills so Putin is defeated", minister warns. Armed forces minister James Heappey admitted that a ‘really expensive winter lies ahead’ for many UK families
Millions of households in Britain must be ready for the “short-term pain” of high energy bills so Vladimir Putin is defeated in Ukraine and future threats from Russia and China are defused, a minister warned on Wednesday.
Armed forces minister James Heappey admitted that a “really expensive winter lies ahead” for many families in the UK and stressed the new Prime Minister’s “first priority” would be a bigger support package.
On 22 August 2022 Admiral Sir Tony Radakin delivered his opening remarks to delegates. The now, Chief of the Defence Staff, discussed the Royal Navy and its strong association with the forum, which will be in sharp focus in New York. #AFF22
FRENCH UK RELATIONSHIP PRIOR NORDSTREAM
FRANCE IS NORDSTREAM SHAREHOLDER (021)
Liz Truss, the favourite to be Britain’s next prime minister, has said "The “jury’s out” on whether French president Emmanuel Macron is “friend or foe” to the UK."
The foreign secretary added that if she was to succeed Boris Johnson she would judge him on “deeds not words”.
It’s unclear precisely why Truss has taken umbrage at the leader of one of the UK’s closet allies, a fellow member of Nato and a vital trading partner.
On 25 August 2022 In a tweet (account unfortunately deleted), former foreign minister Alistair Burt said Ms Truss had made a "serious error" and should have struck a more diplomatic tone.
Former Conservative minister Gavin Barwell also questioned Ms Truss's comment, saying: "You would have thought the foreign secretary was aware we are in a military alliance with France."
Ms Truss's comments have been picked up by French media, who have highlighted recent tensions between Paris and London.
On 26 August 2022 Macron says ‘Serious problem’ if France and UK can’t tell if they’re friends or enemies". French president responds to ‘jury’s out’ comments by Tory leadership favourite Liz Truss about key ally
On 26 August 2022 Macron says UK and France face problems if leaders unsure over friendship. Emmanuel Macron has warned of "serious problems" for France-UK relations after the favourite to be the next British prime minister refused to say if the French president was "friend or foe".
Mr Macron reacted to remarks made by Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, who said the jury was out on the French leader.
Mr Macron insisted the UK remained an ally, despite the occasional error made by its leaders.
And Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Mr Macron was a "good buddy" of the UK.
Senior politicians have accused Ms Truss, who is the frontrunner in the contest to succeed Mr Johnson as prime minister next month, of damaging the UK's relationship with France, a close ally.
Speaking to reporters during a visit to Algeria on Friday, Mr Macron was asked his views on Ms Truss's comments about him.
After a long pause, he said "it's never good to lose your bearings too much in life".
He said he would have given a similar response to Mr Sunak's, had he been asked the same question about the next leader of the UK.
INCREASED SURVEILLANCE BY NATO AND EU COUNTRIES AROUND BALTIC SEA INFRASTRUCTURE - BORNHOLM AREA
On 22 August 2022 - FIN/GER: Balex Delta strengthens multinational cooperation - The Coastal Fleet’s multipurpose vessel Louhi will take part in the multinational Balex Delta 22 environmental response exercise from 22 to 25 August 2022. The Exercise is organized in Germany, in the sea area off Warnemunde. The objective of the exercise is to practise oil and chemical spill response operations at sea as part of a multinational response unit. Balex Delta is the Baltic Sea nations’ annual oil spill response exercise.
On 26 August 2022 Baltic Fleet anti-submarine helicopter crews carried out bombing missions at sea ranges
On 27 August 2022 #Baltic Sea #near Bornholm, #FFAB123 #AE1DCE USN Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk
On 30 August 2022 French Navy, Breguet Atlantique: #FNY5116 spotted in 🇳🇱 Dutch Airspace today proceeding towards the Baltic Sea to start a mission. This aircraft is known for reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.
On 30 August 2022 - USA: Kearsarge ARG Conducts Maneuvering Exercise with Swedish Navy
On 30 August 2022 - USA/UK: American nuclear submarine returns to Scotland. The USS Georgia, equipped with an underwater launch system for special forces, arrived at Faslane naval base in Scotland for its second visit in two months.
The U.S. Navy said that this port visit to Faslane reflects the United States’ “commitment to our allies and partners in the region and complements the many exercises, training, operations, and other military cooperation activities conducted by Strategic Forces to ensure they are available and ready to safely and effectively operate around the globe at any time”.
What is the bump on the back? (006)
It’s a drydock for the ‘SEAL Delivery Vehicle’. The SDV is a manned submersible and a type of swimmer delivery vehicle used to deliver United States Navy SEALs and their equipment for special operations missions. It is also operated by the Royal Navy’s Special Boat Service, which operates three SDVs from Astute-class submarines.
MARIENBORG DECLARATION
On August 30, 2022 The Marienborg Declaration - The Baltic Sea Energy Security Summit. An agreement signed by eight countries surrounding the Baltic Sea: Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, and Finland. Signed on August 30, 2022, at Marienborg, the official residence of Denmark's Prime Minister near Copenhagen. The main goal of the Marienborg Declaration was to significantly increase the capacity of offshore wind energy in the Baltic Sea to reduce dependency on Russian fossil fuels and enhance energy security in the region.
THE NEXT FEW MONTHS WILL BE TOUGH (042, 027)
On 26 August 2022 Energy price cap: What Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak have promised
On 27 August 2022 The UK sends drones for Ukraine
On 28 August 2022 PM Boris Johnson: The next few months will be tough but I’m convinced Britain’s bounceback will be golden. "We are ending our dependency on Russian hydrocarbons. In June, for the first time in decades, we did not import any fuel from Russia. The UK has already stepped up production of domestic gas – 26 per cent more this year than last. We are going to build a new reactor every year and will have a colossal 50 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030 – almost half our total electricity consumption. This British Energy Security Strategy is just a part of a vast programme to make the economy more productive and competitive."
On 30 August 2022 Jacob Rees-Mogg meets energy giants in bid to boost North Sea oil and gas supplies. City A.M. understands the Brexit Opportunities Minister and Liz Truss-backer held talks with energy giants including Shell over recent days, ahead of a desperate winter which will see energy bills spike to new records – driven by fears of supply shortages.He is also looking to seal deals with companies operating in the waters of friendly allies such as Norway. There is confusion over whether Rees-Mogg met oil and gas companies in his role as a Minister or as a supporter of Truss – with multiple Government departments refusing to comment. Truss’ senior team has claimed the meetings were set up by civil servants, and was not linked to her campaign.
(Jacob Rees-Mogg - Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, in office 6 September 2022 – 25 October 2022. One year later there is this news about UK trying to get a 20y long deal very much above the going price - here).
On 30 August 2022 - RU: Putin's U.K. Missile Strike Would 'End British Crown': Russian General. A Russian politician and general encouraged Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime to launch missile strikes on the British Isles in an appearance on Russian state television, saying that such attacks "would be the end of the British Crown."
BORIS JOHNSON´S THE LAST VISIT WAS TO SUBMARINE FORCES (004, 008, 006, 012, 019)
On 2 August 2022 Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits Portsmouth Naval Base to see Royal Navy’s state-of-the-art mine clearing team in action. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has visited the Diving & Threat Exploitation Group (DTXG) at the Defence Diving School, Horsea Island
On 25 August 2022 Chief of the Defence Staff Adm. Tony Radakin Privileged to visit Kyiv with the Prime Minister yesterday to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day & to meet President Zelenskyy.
This was my second visit, and an opportunity to discuss operational matters with my Ukrainian counterpart, General Zaluzhnyi.
This was my second visit, and an opportunity to discuss operational matters with my Ukrainian counterpart, General Zaluzhnyi.
On 26 August 2022 Dozens of Ukrainian personnel are being trained by the Royal Navy to use hi-tech crewless vehicles to help them hunt mines. Side-by-side with comrades from the US Navy, experts from the Diving & Threat Exploitation Group are teaching Ukrainians how to operate the devices, which search large areas of seabed for mines and unexploded ordnance without putting the operators in harm’s way.... The lightweight autonomous vehicle is designed for use in shallow coastal environments, operating effectively at depths of up to 100 metres to detect, locate and identify mines using an array of sensors, so the Ukrainian Navy can destroy them.
On August 2022 News from 27 November 2022 report that "USS Georgia off HMNB Clyde/Faslane in August"'
On 31 August 2022 Boris Johnson to visit nuclear submarine yard in latest stop on PM's farewell tour. Boris Johnson said on 31st August 2022: "From the Pacific Ocean to the Baltic Sea, our submarine service is protecting the UK and our allies 24 hours a day, seven days a week"
THE SANCTIONS TRAP (015)
On 29 August 2022 Russia Flaring Around 4.34 mcmd Of Gas Normally Bound For Nord Stream 1
On 31 August 2022 Boris Johnson to visit nuclear submarine yard in latest stop on PM's farewell tour. Boris Johnson said on 31st August 2022: "From the Pacific Ocean to the Baltic Sea, our submarine service is protecting the UK and our allies 24 hours a day, seven days a week"
THE SANCTIONS TRAP (015)
On 29 August 2022 Russia Flaring Around 4.34 mcmd Of Gas Normally Bound For Nord Stream 1
Rystad Energy, an independent energy research and business intelligence company headquartered in Oslo, Norway made this determination according to analysis of heat levels and satellite data.
RELATED POSTS:
002 - UK government does not like Nordstream
003 - Historical ROOTS of Nordstream affair
004 - 100 shades of Nordstream sabotage - part II
006 - 20 points about UK submarines, DDS, SWCS, MK11, deep divers, DTXG team
008 - 100 shades of Nordstream sabotage - part III
010 - Mackinder Roadblocks against Euro-Asian development & integration
012 - Whose submarine visited Bornholm Deep before the Nordstream was blown up?
015 - Have sanctions against Nordstream Insurers created Catch-22 situation?
019 - Identified submarine threat in the Baltic Sea and the German led "Northern Coasts" exercise
021 - The UK and French relationship
027 - Mission accomplished - UK - from Energy Importer to Energy Exporter
028 - Norway energy exports to EU were at the limit. Why to blow Nordstream then?
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NEXT
(Part 10 - September 1/3 - Draft for now)
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