"
Why blow it up when the ability to offer cheap gas during a frigid winter could turn all of Europe against Ukraine, and make them side with you?"
Along with others, the Trump Administration had warned against excessive reliance on Russian energy products.
German agency suspends certification for Nord Stream 2Deutsche WelleNovember 16, 2021 The controversial gas pipeline connecting Germany and Russia has been completed — but German officials have now blocked its certification process.
https://www.dw.com/en/german-agency-suspends-certification-for-nord-stream-2-pipeline/a-59833502 "The pipeline was built underwater to run through the Baltic Sea and bypass Poland and Ukraine, which have both raised objections. Ukraine stands to lose revenue if gas to Europe is not conveyed through its territory. Poland, for its part, fears the project will further strengthen Gazprom's already dominant position in the region.
The project has also been opposed by several other countries, including the United States, which says it will dangerously increase Europe's dependence on Russia for its energy supply."