If they can blame the US, it drives a wedge between the US and the gas consumers (Europe). The pipe wasn't in use and wasn't likely to be used anytime soon, if

If they can blame the US, it drives a wedge between the US and the gas consumers (Europe). The pipe wasn't in use and wasn't likely to be used anytime soon, if ever. Russia only wins if Ukraine's allies give up. I can see Putin willing to trade a useless pipeline for a chance at dismembering the alliance. The only other option that makes sense is Ukraine doing it. But it seems a high-risk strategy for low reward; at least publicly, there was no indication that Germany et al were begging Russia to turn the gas back on.