Divided West on Russia’s pipeline to Europe: Nord Stream 2

Divided West on Russia’s pipeline to Europe might soon become an additional concern along with Russia’s possible invasion of Ukraine.

Nord Stream 2 is an energy infrastructure, a pipeline. It is a gas pipeline project across Baltic sea. It is $11 billion project. The state of Russia owns the energy giant, Gazprom. The structure runs from western Siberia to Germany. The pipeline might add to the capacity of Nord Stream 1 pipeline.

Divided West on Russia’s pipeline: US, Germany and others

As per US, pipeline is a geopolitical tool of Russia to increase Moscow’s leverage to Europe. It is because the gas prices are rising in Europe. US is torn between its European allies. Poland and Ukraine oppose the pipeline. Additionally, new coalition government in Germany is also internally in disagreement on the situation.

In January, US senate tries to impose sanctions on Nord Stream 2 through a bill. However, Biden administration lobbies against the bill to protect ties with Germany. Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy specifically asks US to approve sanctions. While goes Germany against it. Finally, in May, Biden waves off sanctions on the Russia based company working on the pipeline project because of an agreement with Germany.

Majority of Germans support the project. Germany’s low income workers are particularly hit by the dearth of gas supply in Europe. Thus, they are welcoming the project. While, the well-off and media is against it.

However, Germany is yet to give a final permit to Gazprom to begin the project.

What are the implications of the Nord Stream 2?

• As per Germany, it is a sole commercial project. Although, it has geostrategic outcomes. For instance, Russia pays $2 billion to Ukraine as transit fees to send gas through its territory. On the completion of project, it might avoid so.
• The pipeline can heat 26 million German homes at an affordable price.