Ukraine welcomes US sanctions against Russian pipe-layer building Nord Stream 2

20.01.2021 11:57

Ukrinform

Ukraine welcomes the imposition of U.S. sanctions on the Russian pipe-laying ship Fortuna and its owner, KVT-RUS, for its involvement in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project.

"Ukraine welcomes new U.S. move against Nord Stream 2. Sanctions on Moscow-based KVT-RUS & Fortuna vessel will further complicate construction. We will continue working closely together with our strategic partner U.S. to protect the energy independence of Ukraine and entire Europe," the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry posted on Twitter on January 19.

As reported, in December 2019, the United States of America passed legislation providing for sanctions on a ship involved in building the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Due to the U.S. sanctions, its construction was suspended. However, the Russian side, with the consent of the German side, resumed work on its own, using the Fortuna pipe-laying ship. The 1,200 km long gas pipeline worth almost EUR 9.5 billion is 94% completed. The United States opposes the project, arguing that it will strengthen the Kremlin's grip on the European energy market while undermining Ukraine's security and economy.

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