Geopolitical Competitions in the European Arena

European analytical circles are closely monitoring the events around the Nord Stream 2 project, the construction of which has become scandalous, not least due to the sanctions from the United States and other European countries. This is not just an economic business project, as some German and Russian circles want to present it. In fact, it is an example of geopolitical competition in the European arena, where American instruments of transatlantic influence are used.

Eastern European countries do not accept the idea of such a pipeline. Although they are well aware that such a position contradicts the plans of the most powerful country in the European Union, i.e. Germany. But why are Eastern Europeans so strongly against the pipeline? It is a question of positioning these Eastern European countries in the EU, that is, whether their Eastern European experience and position are appropriate, or Germany will turn a blind eye to this for its own interests?

All Polish political parties are strongly against the pipeline. The governments of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are in solidarity with them. The Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Romania have at least a critical view on this issue, as they believe that Europe may become dependent on Russian gas. In general, they emphasize that effective business projects with Russia are the wrong signal for its President V. Putin, who “stole Crimea and orders to poison those who dared to criticize him”.

The direct supply of raw materials between the largest state in the European Union, Germany, and the country that is still gripped by hegemonic nostalgia, Russia, evokes negative historical memories in the East of the European continent. Germany acts as a two-faced hegemon, officially declaring the obligation to adhere to European ideals, but in fact ruthlessly defending its national interests.

France has for the first time joined criticizing Russia with political demands to stop the construction of Nord Stream 2. Along with France, other EU countries also rejected the Nord Stream 2 project. The European Parliament recently voted to stop the construction of the project immediately.

The German government is likely to adhere to its stated position in support of this project, based on previously reached economic agreements with Russia. Most likely, Germany will try to postpone the decision on its participation or forced refusal to participate in the Nord Stream 2 project until the parliamentary elections and the coming to power of the new German Chancellor in September this year. The USA’s position will play a decisive role in the future of the Russian-German gas pipeline and the setting of priorities in Europe.

The article is available in Ukrainian