The Trump administration is discussing lifting sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, which could be a significant shift in American foreign policy toward Russia, Politico reported on April 24, 2025, citing sources in the White House. The idea was initiated by Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff, who, in his own words, established a trusting relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin during recent talks in Moscow. According to the publication, Witkoff's proposal has not yet received widespread support among American officials, and its implementation could be a diplomatic victory for Russia and a major concession from Trump, which is causing heated debate in US political circles.

As Politico notes, the lifting of sanctions on Nord Stream 2 is being considered in the context of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to rethink relations with Russia. Witkoff, known for his unconventional approaches to diplomacy, believes that such a move could help reduce tensions between Washington and Moscow and open the way to new economic agreements. However, critics of the initiative in Congress and among analysts point out that this decision could undermine the US position in Europe, where the pipeline is perceived as a tool for increasing energy dependence on Russia. A source close to the administration emphasized that the idea is still at the discussion stage and does not have clear support even within the White House.

The Nord Stream 2 issue remains one of the most pressing on the international agenda. Recall that the sanctions against the project imposed by the United States in 2019 and 2021 effectively froze its operation, despite the completion of construction.

The White House discussions have sparked a heated reaction in the American media and social networks. As The Wall Street Journal noted on April 24, 2025, Senate Republicans have already expressed concern that lifting sanctions could be perceived as US weakness vis-à-vis Russia.