Germany, a NATO member, constantly decided against making sanctions that will affect Russia. Here is how Nord Stream 2 plays a key role in Germany’s decision to back Ukraine.
Nord Stream 1 travels through the Baltic Sea avoiding Ukraine, the second project crosses directly under Ukraine. It was completed in 2021 and Germany is yet to pass an inaugural approval. President Joe Biden announced that the Western Allies will have Germany cancel the Nord Stream 2 project in case of a Russian invasion. The announcement came after satellite images showed Russia's 70% troop buildup.
Germany depends heavily on Russia for energy, the second project was signed to meet its growing needs. The risky sanction on the $11 billion project would cause oil and gas shutdowns in Germany during winter—a political weapon for Russia against a major NATO ally. The U.S. is sifting the globe for energy alternatives to have Germany end the Nord Stream 2 to prevent Russia from getting the upper hand.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz evaded commenting on Biden’s Nord Stream 2 announcement following their Oval Office meeting. He said that Germany will follow the same approach as any other NATO ally, especially the U.S. Scholz further added that Russia will face severe consequences if it were to invade Ukraine.
Biden said that Germany’s decision on Nord Stream 2 will not impact the U.S. and Germany’s relationship
