Russia-Germany pipeline project faces EU’s objection

Several European Union countries have expressed their concerns about an oil pipeline project that connects Russia and Germany, named Nord Stream 2.

The main concerns are that the pipeline project will make Germany more reliant to the Russian oil and that reliance may be misused by Russia to fulfil its political and economic goals.

France is the first country that has come out publically against the deal. Later, supporting the stand taken by France, most countries in the east and central regions of Europe –overcoming their fear of retaliatory action from the Germans– have criticised the Germany’s move.

Germany has invested hugely in the project. The project is several decades old. At this moment, Germany cannot withdraw from the deal suddenly as such a move will cost them several millions.

France is likely to dilute its position in the coming hours. Though the EU countries are unhappy with the pipeline project, none wants to interrupt the project at this stage. These factors give confidence to Germany to go ahead with the project.

The EU primarily imports oil from Norway and Russia. Most EU countries are of the opinion that a pipeline that connects Poland and Norway should be created. The newly developed Russia-Germany pipeline which passes beneath the Baltic Sea gives a serious blow to the EU’s Norway plans.

Vignesh. S. G
Photo Courtesy: Google/ images are subject to copyright