Nord Stream 2's Future Uncertain: Germany Balances Energy Needs and Foreign Policy

The Nord Stream 2 pipeline meant to carry Russian natural gas to Germany is still uncertified and idle. The certification process was stopped by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in February 2022 in response to the actions of Russia in Ukraine. Recent attempts by Putin allies to resume the pipeline have been dismissed by the German government. The certification process continues to be on hold, waiting for the transfer of core assets and human capital to a German subsidiary. As Germany and other EU members strive to decouple from Russian fossil fuels, the fate of the pipeline is up in the air. The future of the project hangs in the balance amidst the prevailing Russia-Ukraine war and wider geopolitical tensions.
Source: Reuters, DW.