The objections of Nord Stream 2 opponents are as follows: by implementing the project, Germany becomes dependent on natural gas supplies from Russia and could be blackmailed in the same way as Ukraine in 2006; Germany is not observing European Union regulations and the principle of solidarity in terms of energy supply, to some extent threatening Ukraine and Eastern European countries; Nord Stream 2 threatens gas transit through Ukraine, thereby depriving it of a very significant source of income.

How important is the Nord Stream 2 project to Germany? Was it possible to abandon it?

The answer is simple: energy is and will be necessary. After the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant, many believe there was a hasty and premature abandonment of the further use of nuclear energy. As is known, Germany will cease the operation of nuclear reactors in 2022. What remains? Renewable resources and gas. It is clear that renewable resources will never be able to fully meet the country's (Germany's) electricity needs. By abandoning nuclear energy and coal, the demand for gas will continue to grow. There is the option of using liquefied natural gas, purchasing it from several suppliers and transporting it to Germany by sea, but... large German, Dutch and Austrian energy companies are very interested in cooperation and joint business ventures specifically with Gazprom.