Biden loosens Nord Stream 2 pipeline sanctions, but startup challenges remain By Vanessa Dezem and Dina Khrennikova on 5/20/2021 Nord Stream 2 pipeline route (Bloomberg) --A natural gas pipeline linking Russia and Germany edged closer to completion after the Biden administration loosened sanctions of the controversial project, but significant hurdles remain before the fuel can start flowing under the Baltic Sea. Bidenâs change in stance from Donald Trumpâs fierce opposition to the pipeline means Nord Stream 2 will likely get finished as soon as this year. But the sanctions left in place could make it hard to gain all the necessary approvals to start operations. This yearâs German election, where the Green Party are contenders to lead the next government, also clouds the picture.