German Politician Faces Backlash Over Nordstream II Restart Proposal

Thomas Bareiß's suggestion to repair the pipeline as part of a potential U.S.-Russia agreement draws widespread criticism from German politicians.

CDU politician Thomas Bareiß proposed repairing and restarting the Nordstream II pipeline after a peace agreement in Ukraine, suggesting it could operate under U.S. control.
Bareiß framed the proposal as part of a potential 'Trump deal' with Russia, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump's plans to discuss Ukraine peace talks with Vladimir Putin on March 18, 2025.
Politicians from across German parties criticized the proposal, arguing it undermines efforts to reduce energy dependence on Russia and rewards Russian aggression.
Critics, including Michael Roth and Anton Hofreiter, emphasized the need to further diversify Germany's energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Bareiß's role in CDU-SPD coalition negotiations has intensified scrutiny of his past actions, including alleged opposition to renewable energy and ties to Azerbaijan lobbying.