29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the M Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Russian ambassador in Berlin, Sergei Netsheyev, visit the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline will one day transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the prime minister of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, visits the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station with the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The almost completed gas pipeline is to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Russian ambassador in Berlin, Sergei Netsheyev (2nd from left), visit the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A Russian journalist takes a picture of herself in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility. The nearly completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: An employee wearing a Nord Stream 2 safety jacket stands in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility. The nearly completed gas pipeline is expected to one day transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the M Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Pipe systems and shut-off devices at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Russian ambassador in Berlin, Sergei Netsheyev, visit the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline will one day transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, answers questions from Russian media representatives at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, answers questions from Russian media representatives at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, answers questions from Russian media representatives at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, answers questions from Russian media representatives at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, stands in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Russian ambassador in Berlin, Sergei Netsheyev (2nd from left), visit the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, descends a staircase at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Russian ambassador in Berlin, Sergei Netsheyev, visit the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline will one day transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Pigging station, pipe systems and shut-off devices at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline will one day transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Pigging station, pipe systems and shut-off devices at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline will one day transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Pipe systems and shut-off devices at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Pipe systems and shut-off devices at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, answers questions from Russian media representatives at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline is supposed to transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, visits the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station with the Russian ambassador in Berlin (not pictured). The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, visits the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station with the Russian ambassador in Berlin (not pictured). The almost completed gas pipeline is intended to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the prime minister of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, visits the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station with the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The almost completed gas pipeline is to transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The US wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: Manuela Schwesig (SPD), Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Russian ambassador in Berlin, Sergei Netsheyev, visit the Nord Stream 2 gas landing station. The almost completed gas pipeline will one day transport 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

29 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A red and white barrier tape hangs in front of the pigging station at the Nord Stream 2 gas landing facility, marking the spot for media representatives during the visit of the Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the Russian ambassador in Berlin. The gas pipeline, which is almost completed, is expected to once transport 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany. The USA wants to stop it with sanctions. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

08 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Mukran: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored in the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa

08 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Mukran: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored in the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa

08 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Mukran: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored in the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa

08 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Mukran: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored in the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa

08 April 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Mukran: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored in the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Cherskiy out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A man takes a photo from the pier of the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski", which is being towed by tugs from the seaport onto the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski" out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Bzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski" out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Bzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski" out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Bzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A man takes a photo from the pier of the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski", which is being towed by tugs from the seaport onto the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski" out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Bzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski" out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Bzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Passers-by watch from the pier the Russian pipe-laying ship "Akademik Tscherski" being towed by tugs from the seaport onto the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Cherskiy out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Cherskiy out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Cherskiy out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A man takes a photo from the pier of the Russian pipe-laying ship Akademik Cherskiy, which is being towed by tugs out of the seaport onto the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Passers-by watch from the pier the Russian pipe-laying ship Akademik Cherskiy being towed by tugs from the seaport onto the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Cherskiy out of the seaport towards the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

04 March 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A man takes a photo from the pier of the Russian pipe-laying ship Akademik Cherskiy, which is being towed by tugs out of the seaport onto the Baltic Sea. The special ship has been equipped with further technology in Wismar in recent weeks. Photo: Jens Buzttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

22 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies behind the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Tscherski in the seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. The laying work for the gas pipeline will continue near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

22 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: The Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Chersky is moored in the seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline is continuing near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

22 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: The Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Chersky is moored in the seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline is continuing near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

22 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies behind the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Tscherski in the seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. The laying work for the gas pipeline will continue near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

22 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies behind the Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Tscherski in the seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. The laying work for the gas pipeline will continue near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" lies in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with further technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat passes the boom of the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with further technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

16 February 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: A tugboat lies next to the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Akademik Tscherski" in the partially icy seaport. The special vessel has already been used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea and is currently being equipped with additional technology. Laying work for the gas pipeline continued near the island of Bornholm. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

06 February 2021, North Rhine-Westphalia, Gelsenkirchen: Football: Bundesliga, FC Schalke 04 - RB Leipzig, Matchday 20, Veltins Arena. The controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea pipeline project is advertised on the scoreboard. Photo: Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa-Pool/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen. The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Pipes for the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany are stored at the port of Mukran on the island of Rugen.The German government is sticking to the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline between Russia and Germany despite the imprisonment of Kremlin critic Navalny. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania plans to secure the completion of the controversial Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline with the help of a state-owned foundation. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

25 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Sassnitz-Mukan: Rohren fur den Bau der Erdgaspipeline Nord Stream 2 von Russland nach Deutschland werden im Hafen Mukran auf der Insel Rugen gelagert.Die Bundesregierung halt trotz der Inhaftierung des Kreml-Kritikers Nawalny an der umstrittenen Gaspipeline Nord Stream 2 zwischen Russland und Deutschland fest. Mecklenburg-Vorpommern plant mit Hilfe einer landeseigenen Stiftung die Fertigstellung der umstrittenen Ostsee-Gaspipeline Nord Stream 2 zu sichern. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

21 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: On the Baltic Sea, the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna" lies in the roads off the seaport of Rostock. On 19 February 2021, after numerous threats against the German-Russian gas pipeline Nord Stream 2, the outgoing Trump administration got serious and announced sanctions against the operating company and the ship "Fortuna". Photo: Bernd Wustneck/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

21 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: On the Baltic Sea, the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna" (r) lies in the roads off the Rostock seaport; on the left, the Russian offshore special purpose vessel "Katun". On 19.02.2021, after numerous threats against the German-Russian gas pipeline Nord Stream 2, the outgoing Trump administration got serious and announced sanctions against the operating company and the ship "Fortuna". Photo: Bernd Wustneck/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is anchored in the Baltic Sea off the port of Rostock, barely visible in the fog and sleet. The special ship is to be used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. The US wants to impose sanctions because of the gas pipeline. The punitive measures are to affect the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna", which is involved in the pipeline construction. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is anchored in the Baltic Sea off the port of Rostock, barely visible in the fog and sleet. The special ship is to be used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. The US wants to impose sanctions because of the gas pipeline. The punitive measures are to affect the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna", which is involved in the pipeline construction. Photo: Jens B tner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is anchored in the Baltic Sea off the port of Rostock, barely visible in the fog and sleet. The special ship is to be used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. The US wants to impose sanctions for the first time over the gas pipeline. The punitive measures are to affect the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna", which is involved in the pipeline construction. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is anchored in the Baltic Sea off the port of Rostock, barely visible in the fog and sleet. The special ship is to be used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. The US wants to impose sanctions for the first time over the gas pipeline. The punitive measures are to affect the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna", which is involved in the pipeline construction. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is anchored in the Baltic Sea off the port of Rostock, barely visible in the fog and sleet. The special ship is to be used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. The US wants to impose sanctions for the first time over the gas pipeline. The punitive measures are to affect the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna", which is involved in the pipeline construction. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Nienhagen: A staircase leads to the beach on the Baltic coast. The Russian lay vessel "Fortuna" is anchored in the Baltic Sea off the port of Rostock, barely visible in the fog and sleet. The special ship is to be used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 Baltic gas pipeline. The US wants to impose sanctions for the first time over the gas pipeline. The punitive measures are to affect the Russian lay vessel "Fortuna", which is involved in the pipeline construction. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" hangs at an information point in the Lubmin industrial park. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" hangs at an information point in the Lubmin industrial park. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" stands in front of the gas receiving station in the Lubmin industrial estate. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" stands in front of the gas receiving station in the Lubmin industrial estate. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" stands in front of the gas receiving station in the Lubmin industrial estate. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: The construction site of the gas receiving station for the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea pipeline in the Lubmin industrial park. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: The construction site of the gas receiving station for the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea pipeline in the Lubmin industrial park. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Info Point Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" hangs above a painted map at the construction site for the natural gas receiving station in the Lubmin industrial estate. For a long time, the USA had threatened sanctions, and in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Info Point Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" hangs above a painted map at the construction site for the natural gas receiving station in the Lubmin industrial estate. For a long time, the USA had threatened sanctions, and in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign with the words "Opening Hours - Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" hangs at an information point in the Lubmin industrial park. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: A sign reading "Info Point Nord Stream 2 Committed Reliable Safe" hangs above a painted map at the construction site for the natural gas receiving station in the Lubmin industrial estate. For a long time, the USA had threatened sanctions, and in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

19 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lubmin: The construction site of the gas receiving station for the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea pipeline in the Lubmin industrial park. For a long time, the USA had threatened to impose sanctions, which in the past had also hindered the construction of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea gas pipeline. Now, for the first time, a company involved is to be punished. Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

Tugboats get into position on the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" in the port of Wismar, Germany, Thursday, Jan 14, 2021. The special vessel is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. ( Jens Buettner/dpa via AP)

Tugboats get into position on the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" in the port of Wismar, Germany, Thursday, Jan 14, 2021. The special vessel is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. ( Jens Buettner/dpa via AP)

14 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" out of the harbour and into the Baltic Sea. The special ship is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Media, citing authorities in Denmark, reported that the pipe-laying work should begin in Danish waters in mid-January 2021. The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is to be used for this purpose. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

14 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" out of the harbour and into the Baltic Sea. The special ship is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Media, citing authorities in Denmark, reported that the pipe-laying work should begin in Danish waters in mid-January 2021. The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is to be used for this purpose. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

14 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" out of the harbour and into the Baltic Sea. The special ship is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

14 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" out of the harbour and into the Baltic Sea. The special ship is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Media, citing authorities in Denmark, reported that the pipe-laying work should begin in Danish waters in mid-January 2021. The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is to be used for this purpose. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

14 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" out of the harbour and into the Baltic Sea. The special ship is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Media, citing authorities in Denmark, reported that the pipe-laying work should begin in Danish waters in mid-January 2021. The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is to be used for this purpose. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

14 January 2021, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Wismar: Tugs pull the Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" out of the harbour and into the Baltic Sea. The special ship is being used for construction work on the German-Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea. Media, citing authorities in Denmark, reported that the pipe-laying work should begin in Danish waters in mid-January 2021. The Russian pipe-laying vessel "Fortuna" is to be used for this purpose. Photo: Jens Buttner/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa