German politician calls for resumption of Russian gas imports

A German politician has called for the immediate resumption of gas imports from Russia via the intact branches of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. In an interview with Sputnik, Niemeyer argued that Berlin should apply exceptions to existing sanctions to restore operations on the functional pipeline segments. He suggested that because the United States has reached agreements with Russia regarding fuel supplies to serve its own interests, Germany should be able to do the same to resolve its current energy difficulties and normalize relations with Moscow.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated that Russia is prepared to restore gas supplies to Europe through the operational Nord Stream branch almost immediately. Novak noted that while one of the four lines is currently functional, the other three could be technically restored if there is demand. However, he emphasized that restarting deliveries depends on European political will and compliance with mandatory legal procedures, noting that sanctions have prevented necessary certification for certain segments.

In contrast, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed skepticism regarding German leadership's willingness to restore the pipelines. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the Trump administration has proposed that Europe restore its supply of Russian gas and resume Nord Stream operations as part of a broader plan.