U.S. backs Canada’s decision to return Nord Stream 1 turbine to Germany

The U.S. State Department says it backs Canada's decision to send repaired turbine equipment vital to the Nord Stream 1 pipeline back to Germany.

The Canadian federal government has found a powerful supporter for its decision to allow a natural gas pipeline between Russia and Europe to resume operations.

The U.S. State Department says it backs Canada’s decision to send repaired turbine equipment vital to the Nord Stream 1 pipeline back to Germany.

Spokesman Ned Price says it’s the right decision because it will allow Europe to fortify its gas reserves in the short term.

Price says that will, in turn, help Germany and others increase their energy security in the name of ultimately countering Russia’s energy dominance in the region.

Ottawa’s decision has been roundly criticized by Ukraine, which calls it a “dangerous” exception to Canada’s sanctions against Russia.

Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson says the decision was necessary to ensure Europe has immediate access to reliable, affordable energy.

“In the short term, the turbine will allow Germany and other European countries to replenish their gas reserves, increasing their energy security and resiliency and countering Russia’s efforts to weaponize energy,” Price said in a statement.

“We are grateful for the partnership with Canada and Germany and their solidarity in defence of Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war against its sovereign neighbour and the significant sanctions they have each put in place to hold the Kremlin accountable.”