Editor’s Note:

In their joint statement on Nord Stream 2, Berlin and Washington repeatedly threaten to retaliate if Russia uses “energy as a weapon.” Why threaten? Why not act now? It is happening now. Gazprom is pinching the EU’s gas hose, driving prices up to unprecedented levels. The Kremlin is betting that Europeans will scream for price relief this winter. And relief will come in the shape of Nord Stream 2. In a twofer, the Kremlin’s move also will rile up Ukrainian rate payers, turning them against the government. When is a weapon not a weapon? With Best Regards Jim Brooke