Germany demands prompt activation of Nord Stream 2 pipeline

Germany demands prompt activation of Nord Stream 2 pipeline

Germany's on-going relationship with Russia remains a hot topic, particularly concerning the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Executive, Kretschmer, emphasizes the importance of hastening the pipeline's commissioning amid Russia supplying 40% of the EU's gas demand, as reported by TASS.

Germany yearns for closer collaboration with Russia concerning hydrogen for Europe's energy supply. Kretschmer hopes for in-person meetings with Russian representatives in Saxony post-pandemic. The 55 billion cubic meters per year pipeline, set to run from Russia to Germany via the Baltic Sea, is a contentious issue amid opposition from the US, several EU nations, and Ukraine. Presently, the pipeline is in its final construction stage, with a completion rate of 95% as of March 31.

Politically, Nord Stream 2 holds significant implications. Germany, initially advocating for the pipeline to secure cheap Russian gas, now aims to prevent it from operation. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged to keep the pipeline inactive by altering German foreign trade law. The pipeline, currently owned by Russia’s Gazprom, is undergoing bankruptcy proceedings, but Germany lacks legal means to block a potential sale. Merz is working to close this loophole to ensure Nord Stream 2 remains non-operational[1][2][4].

In late 2022, the pipeline experienced sabotage via explosions, halting gas shipments. Although one of the two lines remains operational, Germany shows no intention of reactivating it. Kremlin pressures and rumored American investor interest to potentially resume gas supply as an "American-owned" asset have been rebuffed[1][2][4].

Strategically, Nord Stream 2 was designed to boost Russia’s gas export capacity to Germany and the Baltic. However, the war in Ukraine and strained Russia-West relations have instigated the search for alternative energy sources, thereby reducing dependence on Russian gas and reshaping European energy security policies[3][4].

The US has consistently opposed Nord Stream 2, citing energy security concerns and the geopolitical risk of increased European dependence on Russian gas. Financial sanctions have been imposed on companies related to the pipeline, with continued support for its prevention[3]. Opposition from Poland and Ukraine is related to losing transit fees and strategic leverage, as well as undermining Ukraine's geopolitical security[3]. Ukraine actively urges European nations to stop the pipeline's operation, as it threatens Ukraine’s gas transit revenues and increases Russian leverage over Europe’s energy supply[1].

The Nord Stream 2 pipeline remains a potent emblem of the strained relations between Germany and Russia. Germany's commitments reflect the West's broader strategy to reduce energy dependence on Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Resistance from the US, EU countries, and Ukraine underscores the multifaceted challenges associated with the pipeline. The sabotage of the pipeline, Germany’s legislative measures, and solidarity with Ukraine emphasize the shift towards alternative energy sources and a broader reconfiguration of energy and political alliances in Europe[1][2][3][4].

1. Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, Germany is actively seeking to collaborate with Russia in the field of hydrogen for Europe's energy supply, as reported by general news sources.
2. The political implications of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline extend beyond Europe, with the US consistently opposing the project due to energy security concerns and the geopolitical risk of increased European dependence on Russian gas.
3. The finance industry has played a significant role in the Nord Stream 2 saga, with financial sanctions imposed on companies related to the pipeline by the US, reflecting the broader strategy of reducing energy dependence on Russia.

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