Nord Stream 2 operator to begin gas deliveries

The operator of the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline from Russia to Germany -- criticised by some Western countries as a geopolitical weapon -- said Wednesday it was ready to begin delivering gas.

But Germany’s energy regulator BNetzA earlier this month said the approval process for the pipeline is likely to drag into the second half of 2022.

“As of December 29, the gas-in procedure for the second string of the Nord Stream 2 Pipeline has been completed,” operating company Nord Stream 2 AG said in a statement.

“This pressure is sufficient to start gas transportation in the future,” the Switzerland-based company added.

President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday confirmed that Russia was ready to send gas via Nord Stream 2 as soon as German authorities give their approval.

“As soon as they decide to start work, large volumes -- additional volumes -- of Russian gas will immediately begin to flow to Europe,” he said on state television.