Reports indicate that Germany still holds enough spare pipes to completely repair the Nord Stream gas pipeline, which was disabled by sabotage in 2022.
According to Ostsee Zeitung, Germany continues to store replacement pipes for the Nord Stream gas pipeline, which was taken out of service due to sabotage in September 2022. The stored pipes are said to be sufficient to fully repair the damaged sections.
In September 2022, three of the four pipelines suffered fractures from underwater explosions, resulting in significant leaks, shortly after the Ukraine conflict escalated. The pipelines were subsequently shut down, and the Nord Stream 2 gas receiving station in Lubmin, Germany, was mothballed. While investigations are ongoing, no official perpetrators have been named, though some reports have suggested Kiev’s involvement.
The outlet reports that approximately 1,000 replacement pipes, valued at €25 million ($28 million), remain in storage in two warehouses near Lubmin.
A source familiar with the situation stated, “The material has a high value,” adding that “Such a quantity of pipes should be approximately enough to repair the destroyed sections.”
Another source commented that the underwater repairs would be “relatively easy in the technical sense” and could be completed quickly, provided new pipe production isn’t required.
Hans-Peter Huber, a lawyer representing Nord Stream 2 AG, a Gazprom subsidiary, confirmed that the pipes remain in Lubmin and are the property of the operators. He noted that recovery efforts are complicated by insolvency proceedings in Switzerland related to the company’s debts to minor creditors.
Huber explained that Western sanctions have frozen approximately €70 million in company funds held at an EU bank, preventing payments to creditors. The company has until May 9 to reach a settlement with creditors or potentially face bankruptcy, which could result in the auction of around 500 of the stored pipes. Huber clarified that these proceedings do not affect Nord Stream 1, as it is not facing insolvency.
Gazprom has previously stated that the pipelines are repairable, although the process could take over a year.
Reports suggest that discussions about restoring Nord Stream are occurring as part of Ukraine peace talks, coinciding with signs of easing US-Russia tensions following President Donald Trump’s return to office.
According to Politico, Washington is reportedly easing sanctions on Nord Stream and other Russian assets in Europe as part of these efforts. Other outlets mention a possible agreement that would allow US investors to acquire a stake in Nord Stream 2 to avoid its bankruptcy. The plan reportedly involves Russia retaining ownership while US companies manage operations.
Bild reported last month that a US-led consortium has already created a plan to partner with Gazprom once sanctions are removed. However, neither Moscow nor Washington has officially confirmed these plans.
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