US, Germany discussed package of sanctions on Russia: Biden
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The United States is using Nord Stream 2 to leverage Russia once again, though it is just as beneficial for Europe as it is for Moscow - if not more.
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US President Joe Biden meets with Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the White House in Washington, US, February 7, 2022 (Reuters)
US President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz discussed potential sanctions on Russia in case Moscow makes any offensive military action against Ukraine.
Biden talked with the Chancellor about their "close cooperation" and developed a "strong package of sanctions that are going to clearly demonstrate international resolve and impose swift and severe consequences", should Russia "violate" the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its western neighbor, Biden told a joint press conference at the White House.
Nord Stream 2, again
The United States tried to use the Nord Stream 2 as a means to leverage Russia once again, the German-Russian project built to deliver Russian gas to Europe. He promised to "bring an end" to the pipeline if Moscow takes military action against Ukraine.
"If Russia invades - that means tanks or troops crossing the border of Ukraine, again - then there will be no longer a Nord Stream 2," Biden told the joint press conference.
"We will bring an end to it," Biden declared. "I promise you we’ll be able to do it."
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had previously announced an agreement between the US and Germany, under which the pipeline would not be allowed to operate in case of an escalation with Ukraine.
Washington did not only strongarm Berlin out of the pipeline, it is sending arms to Kiev and positioning US and NATO troops all over Europe.
Allies despite turbulences
Germany is a reliable ally, told reporters with the highest-ranking German official by his side as Berlin is under fire from the West for not engaging with US-led efforts to arm Ukraine and allegedly bolster the Ukrainian border.
"Germany's completely reliable - completely, totally, thoroughly reliable. I have no doubt about Germany at all," Biden told reporters.
Scholz repeated, praising Washington-Berlin relations: "Acting together, we are absolutely united and we will not (be) taking different steps. We will do the same steps, and they will be very, very hard for Russia."
Russia is facing mounting western accusations about intending to invade Ukraine, though Moscow denied these allegations and said they were a bid to expand NATO toward the east.
The allegations are of the Kremlin mobilizing troops on the border with Ukraine, but Russia dismissed them and said it had the freedom to move its army however it may desire within the confines of its borders.
