Operation of Nord Stream 2 Gas Pipeline to be Suspended, Scholz Says

The operation of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline will be suspended. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced this, according to Deutsche Welle. He stated that he has instructed Germany's Ministry of Economics and Environment to halt the certification of Nord Stream 2.

According to the German Chancellor, alongside primary sanctions against Russia, it is crucial to prevent further escalation, for which all diplomatic efforts are directed.

The construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline was completed last September. Ukraine and several Eastern European countries have expressed opposition to its operation, arguing that the pipeline is a tool of Russia's political influence.

The United States believes that Nord Stream 2 will increase Europe’s dependence on Russian gas.

It is worth noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin has recognized the republics of Donetsk and Luhansk. Following that, he signed decrees on the recognition of these republics' independence. The Russian Foreign Ministry was instructed to establish diplomatic relations with the Donetsk and Luhansk republics, while the Ministry of Defense was tasked with maintaining peace in these republics by Russian armed forces. Additionally, Putin signed treaties on friendship, cooperation, and mutual assistance with the leaders of the Donetsk and Luhansk republics.