Ukraine-Russia: Germany suspends Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline

By FRANK JORDANS
Associated Press

BERLIN (AP) — Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Germany has taken steps to halt the process of certifying the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia. The decision, which was criticized by Moscow, is a significant move for the German government. Scholz told reporters in Berlin on Tuesday that the decision came in response to Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. The pipeline bringing natural gas from Russia to Germany has long been criticized by the United States and some European countries, who argue that it increases Europe’s reliance on Russian energy supplies. Scholz said the government had decided to “reassess” the certification of the pipeline. Russia criticized the move, saying it would lead to an increase in gas prices for European consumers.