Von der Leyen warns Russia of gas pipeline sanctions over Ukraine

Ursula von der Leyen with Germany’s chancellor, Olaf Scholz, who has faced criticism over what some regard as his vague stance over Nord Stream 2. Photograph: John Thys/AFP/Getty Images

Nord Stream 2, the controversial Russian gas pipeline to Germany, will be part of the package of sanctions facing the Kremlin if Ukraine is invaded, Ursula von der Leyen has said.

In comments that appear to go further than any commitments made by Germany’s chancellor, Olaf Scholz, the European Commission president sought to clear up any doubt about the pipeline’s future.