US urges Germany to stop pipeline if Russia attacks Ukraine
After US-European allegations of a Russian plan to invade Ukraine, the US calls on Germany to stop the upcoming Nord Stream 2 pipeline with Russia in the event of an attack.
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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Germany to stop the upcoming Nord Stream 2 pipeline with Russia if Moscow invades Ukraine.
"From our perspective, it's very hard to see gas flowing through that pipeline, to become operational, if Russia renews its aggression," Blinken said during a joint news conference with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
Furthermore, Blinken warned that Russia must ease pressure on Ukraine if it wants progress, renewing a warning of "massive consequences" in the event of an invasion.
"It will be very hard to make actual progress... in an atmosphere of escalation and threats with a gun pointed at Ukraine's head," Blinken added.
Here’s what you need to know
The 1,200-kilometer (745-mile) pipeline, which runs underwater from Russia's Baltic coast to northeastern Germany, was completed in September.
In mid-November, the German energy regulator suspended the certification procedure for Nord Stream 2 by requiring the Swiss-based consortium in charge of its operation to create a company under German law.
The US had earlier warned Russia to withdraw from the Ukrainian borders, warning that G7 and allies would impose "tough measures" if Moscow "abandons diplomacy".
Biden also said the United States would provide additional military supplies to Kiev beyond what it currently provides and support NATO allies in the Alliance's eastern flank.
On his part, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that Moscow pursues a peaceful foreign policy but has every right to defend its security in the medium and long terms.
