Citing a confidential document sent by Germany to Washington it allegedly obtained, Axios reported on Sunday that Berlin has urged the United States to give up on the idea of introducing sanctions against the Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project.
The six-page confidential non-paper allegedly used in closed discussions between governments warns that any “unilateral action” of the US Congress’ on the project would seriously weaken transatlantic unity on Russia.
US media reported on Saturday that Biden’s administration is apparently opposing the new batch of sanctions against the Russian project that might hit the companies involved in the process of testing and certifying the endeavor, that are currently going through Congress.
Germany is attempting to reassure Washington in the document that Nord Stream 2 poses “no threat” to Ukraine’s energy security in its current state, a concern that the US claims is grounds enough for potential sanctions.
Berlin also argues that the sanctions would weaken the credibility of the US government since its sanctions would hurt American allies in Europe, including Germany, and would undermine the Joint Statement on support of Ukraine the two nations signed on July 21 noting the achievements they agreed upon.
The German side notes that Kremlin is fulfilling all delivery obligations at the time and cannot be blamed for skyrocketing energy prices, convincing at the same time Washington that coordinated efforts by the US and Germany would be a more effective deterrent against any potentially hostile actions Russia can take.
Pointing it has outlined several measures that are always ready for implementing should Russia attempt to use energy as a weapon – such as strong public rebukes, suspension of bilateral political meetings and support for the victims of Russia’s use of energy as a weapon – Germany also stresses that it hasn’t soften its position on Russia due to Nord Stream 2 and notifies Washington.
US media reported on Saturday that Biden’s administration is apparently opposing the new batch of sanctions that are currently going through Congress against the Russian project that might hit the companies involved in the process of testing and certifying the endeavor, but it’s unclear if the non-paper has had any influence on Washington.
The official position of Berlin on the pipeline project, which is expecting the final approval of its certification between July and September 2022, might depend on the stance of the new German government, but Robert Habeck, the incoming vice-chancellor, has already slammed Nord Stream 2 as a means of putting Ukraine under pressure.
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