After thanking President Biden for America’s continued support and assistance, the Ukrainian leader may gently inquire about NATO membership. But there will be a large elephant in the room: Nord Stream 2. At the risk of souring an enjoyable encounter, Mr. Zelensky should tell Mr. Biden in no uncertain terms that Nord Stream 2 must be stopped. In July, the United States issued a joint statement with Germany on Nord Stream 2 that effectively granted Russia permission to complete the project. But it was Ukraine and Poland, the two countries that have the most to lose from Nord Stream 2, whose response was most rancorous.

Source: International New York Times August 30, 2021 04:52 UTC