Novak noted that US sanctions against Nord Stream 2 are open protectionism associated primarily with the need to promote American liquefied natural gas.

According to Novak, the instrument offered by the United States is absolutely not competitive and everyone understands this, including the European countries and companies interested in the implementation of Nord Stream 2.

“They support the project, and I am sure that with this support it will be implemented,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Earlier, the Norwegian company Det Norske Veritas (DNV GL) refused to certify the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline after its completion due to US sanctions on the project.