EU Targets Nord Stream 2 After Russia Rejects Ceasefire

The European Union is preparing to sanction the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, Bloomberg reported on May 23, following Moscow’s rejection of a ceasefire with Ukraine. The move, though largely symbolic—the pipeline is not operational—is designed to cement the EU’s commitment to ending its reliance on Russian energy and to pressure the Kremlin into peace talks.

Unnamed EU sources told Bloomberg that discussions with member states would begin on May 23, and the decision would hinge partly on the outcome of peace talks in Istanbul, which yielded no progress.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government supports the sanctions, with spokesman Stefan Cornelius stating the aim is to “achieve agreement from Russia to an unconditional truce.” Germany also sees the step as a way to reduce gas market volatility linked to Nord Stream negotiations.

Florence Schmit, an energy strategist, said the move is “political,” targeting long-term energy independence rather than immediate gas supply disruptions.

Peace negotiations held in Istanbul on May 16 stalled as Russia demanded Ukraine accept the loss of Crimea and four eastern regions. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed Russia had “no interest” in a ceasefire, stating, “We don’t want this anymore.”

President Vladimir Putin did not attend the talks, rejecting President Volodymyr Zelensky’s invitation for a direct meeting.