Key facts
- Reagan imposed sanctions in June 1982 to block European firms from using US technology for a Soviet gas pipeline.
- Reagan warned Europe risked becoming a hostage to the Kremlin and funding Moscow's war efforts.
- Reagan offered to sell the Soviet Union up to 23 million tonnes of grain shortly before the November 1982 congressional elections.
The article draws a parallel between President Donald Trump's approach to energy deals and a strategy employed by former President Ronald Reagan in 1982. Reagan imposed sanctions on European firms involved in building a Soviet gas pipeline, citing concerns about Europe's reliance on Moscow and its financial contributions to the Kremlin. However, shortly before the November congressional elections, Reagan offered to sell the Soviet Union a significant amount of grain.