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The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which aims to supply gas to Europe from Russia, is facing problems. The pipeline, which is opposed by Ukraine, Poland and the United States, is awaiting approval from Germany and the European Union, to bypass other countries, bringing gas directly to Europe.
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has said the gas will not be shipped if Russia launches an attack on Ukraine.
German officials have been more cautious, but say Russian aggression would have high costs for Moscow.
Europe, meanwhile, faces gas shortages and rising prices this winter.
The pipeline will double the amount of gas from Russian firm Gazprom to Germany, via a pipeline under the Baltic Sea, bypassing existing lines through Poland and Ukraine.
Critics say this increases Russian influence in Europe, pits European states against each other, and denies Ukraine key financial revenues from transit.
The approval process is currently suspended. Germany says it will only approve permits for one German company. Nord Stream 2, based in Switzerland and operating as a subsidiary of Russian Gazprom, is setting up a new branch in Germany. The decision by the German authorities is expected in 2022 and then must be reviewed by the European Union.voa
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