US to sanction Nord Stream 2 over Russian actions in eastern Ukraine

WASHINGTON

US President Joe Biden said Wednesday he directed his administration to impose sanctions on Nord Stream 2 AG, the company that built the Nord Stream gas pipeline, and its corporate officers.

"These steps are another piece of our initial tranche of sanctions in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. As I have made clear, we will not hesitate to take further steps if Russia continues to escalate," Biden said in a statement.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz halted certification of Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline on Tuesday in response to Russia’s widely condemned move against Ukraine’s territorial integrity after recognizing the independence of two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine.

"There can be no certification of this pipeline now, and without this certification the Nord Stream 2 cannot begin operating," said Scholz.

"I want to thank Chancellor Scholz for his close partnership and continued dedication to holding Russia accountable for its actions," said Biden.