Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made a bold declaration, vowing to prevent the launch of the Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. The pipeline, which runs from Russia through the Baltic Sea to Germany, was severely damaged by a series of underwater explosions in September 2022. Russia has accused Western intelligence agencies of orchestrating the sabotage. Merz’s statement comes as Moscow and Kiev are working on proposals to bring about a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, following their first direct peace talks in three years.
The talks in Istanbul marked a significant shift in approach for Kiev, which had previously abandoned diplomatic efforts in favor of seeking a military victory. While Moscow claims to have made progress on its proposal, Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky and his EU backers have accused Russia of stalling. During a joint press conference with Zelensky in Berlin, Merz pledged to “further increase pressure on Russia” and “weaken Moscow’s war machine” through sanctions, including those targeting Nord Stream 2.
Merz emphasized that Germany will do everything in its power to prevent the pipeline from being put back into operation. He believes that these measures will “pave the way for negotiations,” despite Moscow’s criticism of Western sanctions policy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also announced plans for an 18th sanctions package, which will include measures aimed at Nord Stream 2 AG, the Swiss-based entity that owns the pipelines.
However, not all European officials are in agreement with targeting the pipelines. Florian Philippot, a prominent French Euroskeptic, has warned that such a move would be a “death sentence” for European industry. Michael Kretschmer, the prime minister of the German state of Saxony, argues that Nord Stream could be a possible opening for conversations with Russia, which would benefit Germany’s economy. Earlier reports have suggested that Russia and the US are exploring ways to resume shipments through the still-intact line of Nord Stream 2.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Merz’s declaration will impact the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the future of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. One thing is certain, however: the international community will be watching closely as these events develop. With the EU and Russia at odds over the pipeline, and the US exploring ways to resume shipments, the fate of Nord Stream 2 hangs in the balance.
