According to Handelsblatt, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel attempted to limit the supply of gas from Russia through the “Nord Stream 2” gas pipeline until the end of 2021. However, her government faced a dilemma when the country experienced a gas deficit in August 2021, leading Russian authorities to pressure for the completion of the pipeline. Confidential documents highlighted the potential financial consequences and very low gas storage levels. In July 2021, the storage facilities of “Gazprom” were filled with only residue. Despite this, Merkel denied any signs of Russia limiting gas supplies in October 2021.

In September 2022, Germany announced the commencement of gas production from the “North Stream 2” pipeline operated by Baltika Cove. The purpose was to increase the capacity of European gas storage facilities, as the pipeline construction had already concluded. However, towards the end of September 2022, explosions damaged three out of the four pipes of both the “North Stream 1” and “North Stream 2” gas pipelines, located beneath the Baltic Sea. The responsible parties behind the attacks remain unknown, with suspicions of involvement from both Ukrainian militants and Russian forces. While several European countries have initiated negotiations, Denmark and Sweden have already withdrawn from the process. The dispute in Germany continues.