German ambassador condemns US pressure on Nord Stream-2

Europe itself is able to decide on ensuring its energy security, Germany does not accept the US pressure on the Nord Stream-2 gas pipeline, German Ambassador to Russia Geza Andreas von Geir told RBC.

The sanctions bill against Nord Stream-2 was introduced to the Senate in early June. It provides for restrictive measures “for all companies” involved in the project. The restrictions also apply to all services, such as inspections or certification, which are necessary for the operation of the pipeline.

“We, Germans and Europeans, are fully able to decide for ourselves how best to ensure our energy security. We will not accept outside pressure through an extraterritorial sanctions instrument”, – von Geir said.

Nord Stream-2 involves the construction of two pipelines of a gas pipeline with a total capacity of 55 billion cubic meters of gas per year from the Russian coast through the Baltic Sea to Germany.

The United States is actively opposing the project, promoting its liquefied natural gas in the EU, as well as Ukraine and a number of European countries. At the end of 2019, the United States imposed sanctions on the project, requiring construction companies to immediately stop construction. Swiss Allseas almost immediately announced the suspension of construction.