Habeck told the German magazine in the interview published on Friday and quoted by Reuters:
- We should also think about new business areas that can help lead both sides out of this confrontational position
On Thursday, Secretary Blinken was in Berlin for meetings with the top German officials, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
Blinken said:
- Appreciative of the important opportunity to meet in Berlin with our European Allies about the ongoing Russia-caused crisis with Ukraine
- We are all committed to supporting Ukraine and its people in the face of Russia’s aggressive actions
Baerbock said:
- We urgently demand that Russia takes steps towards deescalation
- Any further aggressive behaviour or aggression would result in serious consequences
But last week, Berlin indicated that it could refuse to approve the project if Russia invaded Ukraine.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz indicated that if Russia does attack Ukraine, Germany’s response could include stopping the pipeline, adding that it was «clear that there will be a high price to pay and that everything will have to be discussed should there be a military intervention in Ukraine.»
While Germany says it is prepared to do whatever it takes to keep Russia from invading Ukraine, the U.S. Senate voted last week against levying sanctions on Nord Stream 2, despite some senators’ insistence that Russia is using the pipeline and natural gas flows - or lack thereof - as blackmail.
Author: Tsvetana Paraskova
