The European Union is preparing to impose new sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, which connects Germany with the Russian Federation, in order to prevent its operation from resuming and to reduce dependence on Russian gas. According to sources, the European Commission is already starting consultations with member states regarding the introduction of a ban on the operation of pipelines that run along the bottom of the Baltic Sea. This decision is part of a broader strategy in the context of current events in the negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.
This is reported by Київ24
The main goal of the sanctions is to deter the return of Nord Stream 2 and to strengthen EU unity on energy policy. It is important that this initiative has the support of Germany. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated last week in Rome that he supports “the Commission’s proposal to begin work on European measures against Nord Stream 2,” which, according to him, aims to reduce domestic debates regarding the potential revival of the pipeline.
Goals of the Sanctions and Possible Consequences
The application of sanctions will add weight to Europe’s position, which seeks to reduce its dependence on Russian gas and avoid its return. It will also serve as a deterrent against any external pressures from the United States or the Russian Federation aimed at restoring the pipeline’s operation.
“The ban will also protect Berlin from any potential pressure from the US or Russia”
Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine and the suspension of the certification of Nord Stream 2 in 2022, the pipeline has remained inactive. Explosions in September 2022 damaged parts of Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2, effectively halting their operation. Subsequent consultations regarding the 18th sanctions package are scheduled for this weekend, and support for the decision requires unanimous agreement from all 27 EU member states.