Nord Stream 2 was once considered a cornerstone of Europe’s energy strategy.
The pipeline, intended to deliver 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually from Russia to Europe, was designed to increase supply and reduce costs.
While it faced criticism for deepening reliance on Russian energy, its backers argued it was a vital project for energy security.
In 2022, the pipeline was severely damaged in an underwater explosion, further complicating an already tense geopolitical landscape.
Failed to assist
The Russian operator of Nord Stream 2 has filed a lawsuit against Norwegian energy company Equinor, accusing it of failing to assist after the explosion.
The operator alleges that Equinor had professional obligations to help investigate the incident, which disrupted the pipeline’s operations.
Equinor rejected the claims, stating that EU sanctions imposed after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine prohibited any support for the project.
“We could not provide any assistance to Nord Stream 2 as it would violate EU sanctions,” said Equinor spokesperson Ola Morten Aanestad.
The explosion also impacted Nord Stream 1, further reducing Europe’s access to natural gas.
While the damage exacerbated a significant energy crisis, Norwegian gas helped to stabilize supply, meeting 30% of Europe’s energy needs in 2024, according to Equinor data.
The legal proceedings are set to begin in June in Stavanger, Norway. Both parties have declined to disclose the amount of compensation being sought.
The destruction of Nord Stream pipelines not only caused immediate economic damage but also intensified tensions between Russia and the West.
Legal actions like this one reflect broader disputes over energy security, sanctions, and the responsibilities of companies operating in politically charged environments.
