Keep in mind that Russia has a history of corrupting Western politicians, on a strategic and multi-decade basis, for example Gerhard Shroder, ex-Chancellor of Germany. He initiated the nuclear shutdown, and now serves as Chairman of Rosneft:
The purpose of the pipeline is precisely to bypass Ukraine and connect into Germany directly. That way Russia can declare war on Ukraine whilst gas connectivity is maintained. Nordstream also avoids going through Polish territory.
Its basically the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact all over again.
Keep in mind that Russia has a history of corrupting Western politicians, on a strategic and multi-decade basis, for example Gerhard Shroder, ex-Chancellor of Germany. He initiated the nuclear shutdown, and now serves as Chairman of Rosneft:
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/europe/gerhard-schr%C3...
The message to Europe is presumably: intervene in Ukraine this time, and we'll completely shut off your Winter gas.