Bundestag member Yevgeny Schmidt from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) faction insists that the country has effectively imposed sanctions on itself through its actions.

This paradox stems from decisions made by German authorities regarding the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Schmidt pointed out that one of the pipelines remains operational, yet no natural gas is being transported through it.

"One branch of Nord Stream 2 is still in working condition. Essentially, we’ve imposed sanctions on ourselves," the policymaker added.

The AfD deputy also referenced statements by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has repeatedly expressed readiness to resume gas deliveries at any time.

Following the sabotage incidents in September 2022, which targeted the gas pipelines, only one of Nord Stream 2’s four pipelines remained intact. Moscow was willing to go ahead with supplies through it. However, the German authorities have consistently refused to purchase Russian gas.