"Stop Node Stream 2 Project"... Strong Anti-Russian Voices Within Germany
90% Construction Progress, Germany Faces Crucial Decision Ahead of Completion Next Year
[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The 'Nord Stream 2' project, which aims to supply Russian natural gas directly to Germany, is facing a halt just as its completion is in sight. Despite persistent threats of U.S. sanctions, Germany had strongly pushed forward with the project. However, after evidence emerged that Russia used poison to assassinate opposition activist Alexei Navalny, opposition voices have begun to rise within Germany. There are calls to halt the project as a form of sanction against Russia.
On the 3rd (local time), Norbert R?ttgen, chairman of the German Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee, stated in a media interview, "The message from Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Navalny's 'Novichok' poisoning is clear: opposing the regime means losing your life." He added, "In this context, diplomatic responses alone may not be sufficient." R?ttgen emphasized, "We need to take a strong stance. Germany must respond in a way that President Putin can understand," referring to "gas sales and such." He warned, "If the Nord Stream 2 pipeline is completed despite this incident, it will give President Putin the confidence to continue such politics."
A vessel belonging to Russia's Gazprom is installing pipes used for Nord Stream 2. [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]
Nord Stream 2 is a project to double the volume of natural gas supplied directly from Russia to Germany by connecting a 1,200 km long underwater natural gas pipeline between the two countries. Currently, 90% of the construction is complete, with a target completion date set for early next year.
The United States has opposed the Nord Stream 2 project, concerned about Russia's increasing influence in Europe. In contrast, Germany has shown a willingness to proceed with the project despite conflicts with the U.S. However, the situation changed after it was confirmed that Navalny was attacked with the poison Novichok, which can also be used for military purposes. Germany actively responded to the issue by sending medical personnel to bring Navalny back to the country once evidence of poisoning was confirmed. Particularly, since it is known that Navalny was poisoned with a substance difficult to obtain unless from government agencies, suspicions of Russian government involvement have gained weight.
The Washington Post (WP) assessed that Chancellor Merkel faces the challenge of balancing political differences with Russia and economic ties. However, WP also reported that there are cautious voices within Europe regarding sanctions against Russia. Since the incident occurred in Russia, it is difficult to investigate, and identifying the perpetrator is not easy.
Russia has opposed calls from German politicians to halt the Nord Stream 2 project. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Russian Presidential Administration, said, "I do not understand the reason for imposing sanctions." He added, "The Russian government is also curious about how Navalny was poisoned with Novichok," and "We have not yet received any information from the German government."
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