Russia offers to restart Nord Stream 2 gas flow to Germany

President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia is ready to immediately resume natural‑gas deliveries to Germany through the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, saying the infrastructure is functional and can transport up to 28 billion cubic metres per year. He emphasized that only a political decision by Berlin is needed, adding, “Just press a button and the gas will start flowing.”

German officials, meanwhile, say a diplomatic “window of opportunity” may be opening for talks with Russia. Sources report that a high‑level meeting between representatives of Friedrich Merz and Vladimir Putin could be arranged soon, possibly involving other European partners, to discuss ending the war in Ukraine and broader relations. Analysts note the move is tentative and subject to U.S. involvement and European unity.