Executive Summary

Nord Stream 2, perhaps the most controversial gas infrastructure project not only has divided the European Union but is also shaping the transatlantic relation while directly impacting the Eastern Neighborhood of the EU. While Germany is boosting the idea that the project is an economic one, South Stream 2 is maybe the most politicized project.  Eastern Europe led by Poland and followed by neighboring Ukraine are directly exposed to the effects of implementing Nord Stream 2.

The present paper discusses the strategic importance of the energy dialogue between the Russian Federation and the European Union while emphasizing the importance of the normative aspect in setting the tone of the energy agenda with Kremlin. While acknowledging that Russia has predominantly exerted geopolitical power through the sale of its vast energy resources and selected strategies to channel them to partners, the political engagement of various political actors of the EU is analyzed with respect to the advancement of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

Special attention is given to the future role of Ukraine as a consumer and transit country and the Republic of Moldova’s perspectives of ensuring its energy security

Author: Leonela Leca

PDF Version: Nord Stream 2. Implications for the Eastern Neighborhood