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4d ago

Rubio and Witkoff Reject Politico Claims of Nord Stream Sanctions Debate

Top U.S. officials dismiss reports of lifting sanctions on Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline as part of Ukraine peace talks, calling the allegations baseless.

U.S Secretary of State Marco Rubio is pictured in Paris on April 17, 2025.
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US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff (L) listens to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a diplomatic meeting with France's President, France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and Ukrainian Head of Presidential Office, UK National Security Adviser and Germany's national security advisor at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris on April 17, 2025. US Secretary of State was in Paris today to meet French President about crafting a Ukraine ceasefire, as Washington and Europe seek common ground on ending the fighting. Top Ukrainian officials were also in the French capital to meet EU and US delegations. (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / POOL / AFP) (Photo by LUDOVIC MARIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Overview

  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have strongly denied a Politico report alleging discussions to lift sanctions on Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline.
  • Rubio described the claims as 'unequivocally false,' while Witkoff stated there was 'not even a kernel of truth' to the story.
  • The Politico report, citing anonymous sources, claimed Witkoff was advocating for easing energy sanctions and had directed staff to review U.S. energy-related sanctions on Russia.
  • The Nord Stream pipelines, partially operable after a 2022 sabotage, remain central to geopolitical and economic discussions involving Russia, Europe, and the U.S.
  • Despite the denials, broader peace negotiations between the U.S. and Russia over Ukraine continue, with sanctions relief remaining a potential point of contention.