Russia reiterates readiness to supply gas to Europe via Nord Stream 2 contingent on formal legal approval, asserting that the infrastructure is prepared and could begin deliveries promptly once European authorities grant the necessary permissions.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated that Moscow remains capable of routing gas to European markets through Nord Stream 2 as soon as the relevant European powers complete their legal and regulatory review. He emphasized that the pipeline system is ready for operation, building on the existing Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 facilities, which have been the subject of international debate and scrutiny over recent years.
Novak highlighted that the current status of Nord Stream 1 shows damage resulting from what Moscow characterizes as sabotage. He noted that the fate of Nord Stream 1 requires a thorough investigation while underscoring that Nord Stream 2 is prepared for entry into service. According to the Russian official, European partners would need to certify the pipeline and establish any necessary restrictions before it can be activated. He added that if the required legal decisions are made to authorize its operation, gas supplies could resume through Nord Stream 2 without delay.
In remarks circulated by TASS, Novak linked the readiness of Nord Stream 2 to the process of obtaining certification and setting the appropriate regulatory framework. He suggested that once European authorities complete their due diligence and grant clearance, Russia stands ready to meet demand by leveraging the existing gas export infrastructure. The emphasis remained on the reliability of Russia’s gas delivery capabilities and the importance of a clear legal pathway to initiate flows through Nord Stream 2.
Experts and policymakers in the region have long debated the role of Nord Stream 2 in safeguarding European energy security, especially amid ongoing discussions about diversification, supply reliability, and geopolitical risk. Moscow’s position is that the infrastructure can contribute to stable gas supply when regulatory steps align with international standards and all safeguards are in place. The dialogue around Nord Stream 2 continues to revolve around certification requirements, environmental and safety approvals, and the broader regulatory environment that governs cross-border energy projects in Europe.