Nord Stream 2 will certainly be destroyed if Russia launches a full-scale offensive against Ukraine, ”Bershidsky said.
According to him, a "smaller-scale operation" by Russia could delay the launch of the gas pipeline, which Washington would certainly take advantage of.
"The United States would buy time and get convincing arguments for its almost lost battle with the Russian gas pipeline so far," writes Bershidsky.
He stressed that Moscow does not intend to "unleash a war", as it is interested in economic cooperation with Europe.
Earlier, the head of Naftogaz Ukrainy, YuriVitrenko, said that the launch of Nord Stream 2 makes Ukraine more vulnerable to a "Russian invasion."
He also said that if gas transit stops, "the chances of a full-scale war between Russia and Ukraine with all its consequences will increase."
Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on statements about the alleged preparation of the Russian side for the invasion of Ukraine.