The United States has once again spoken threatening words against the companies involved in the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, between Russia and Germany. A statement by Blinkin’s Secretary of State said that companies that do not immediately stop doing so are subject to sanctions.
The pipeline has long been opposed by the United States because it makes Europe more dependent on Russian natural gas and gives Russia more leverage. Countries like Poland and Ukraine also oppose it. Germany is a strong supporter of the project.
In the new statement, Blinken described Nord Stream 2 as a bad deal for Germany and several countries in Central and Eastern Europe. And he talks about “a Russian geopolitical project that divides Europe and weakens European energy security.”
Insurance companies withdrew
To date, the Americans have imposed sanctions on a joint construction company: the Russian construction company KVT-Rus. In addition, about two dozen insurance companies have recently pulled out of the project, under pressure from earlier US warnings.
Dutch companies are no longer involved in construction, also partly due to American pressure. The construction of the gas pipeline has not yet been completed this year.
