Pipeline politics and US strategic calculations

The US deal with Germany over the controversial Nord Stream 2 project offers a glimpse into how the Biden administration proposes to go about forging global alliances against its strategic competitors, and not just in Europe.

Workers at the construction site of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in Lubmin, Germany, in 2019. PHOTO: AFP
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

One of Europe's longest-running political disputes is now over. United States President Joe Biden has just agreed to drop sanctions against a projected gas pipeline linking Russia to Germany, in return for a German pledge to strengthen the security of European countries should they be subjected to future Russian military or economic pressure.

The deal puts an end to a debate which poisoned relations between European nations.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.