Merz pledges to prevent Nord Stream 2 from being reactivated
(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has firmly pledged to prevent the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from ever being reactivated. The pipeline, which runs under the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany, was severely damaged in September 2022 by underwater explosions. Russia has alleged the sabotage was carried out by Western intelligence services.
Merz’s remarks come as Russia and Ukraine engage in drafting separate proposals aimed at achieving a ceasefire following their first direct peace talks in three years, held in Istanbul. The negotiations represent a shift in Ukraine’s stance, as Kiev had previously abandoned diplomatic channels in 2022 in favor of a military approach, reportedly under Western influence.
At a press conference with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in Berlin on Wednesday, Merz said Germany would increase pressure on Russia and work to further weaken its war capabilities. He emphasized that sanctions—including continued opposition to Nord Stream 2—are part of this effort.
“Germany will do everything in its power to make sure Nord Stream 2 never becomes operational,” Merz declared, arguing that the sanctions were intended to help create conditions for peace talks, despite Russia’s ongoing criticism of such policies.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently announced an 18th round of EU sanctions, which is expected to target Nord Stream 2 AG—the Swiss company that owns the pipeline—and any other entities involved in attempts to restore its operation. Reports suggest that Merz supports this initiative and is coordinating with officials in Berlin and Brussels to ensure the pipeline remains offline, thus blocking a revival of Russian energy exports to Europe.
However, not all European leaders agree. French Euroskeptic politician Florian Philippot warned that blocking Nord Stream 2 could cripple European industry. Similarly, Michael Kretschmer, the prime minister of Saxony, said the pipeline could serve as a diplomatic channel with Russia, and argued that Germany still needs Russian gas for its economy to function effectively.
There have also been unconfirmed reports suggesting that both Russia and the United States have explored the possibility of resuming gas shipments through the pipeline’s undamaged section.
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