Why would Russia hit Nord 1 &2?, page-3

Maybe you have answered your own Q.

As you say it is Russia's gas to stop, they didn't need to blow up the pipes, but they are already walking a tightrope and deliberately freezing Europe may be beyond the pale. Having already threatened nukes if Ukraine don't recognise the results of the referendums [not directly, but only one or two intermediate steps] they hear B 52s coming.

The Russian offensive could be turned into a rout with a squadron of F 35s with anti-radar missiles, some F 18 Growlers as jammers/decoys and ground support a/c flying under this umbrella destroying retreating hardware.

The F 35 was late, but cometh the time, cometh the plane and if intelligence says Russia is about to use a tactical nuke, NATO will act to preempt the use of nukes, either tactical or strategic.

@watso I still trust America more than either China or Russia and I like having them as big brother. Your hatred is misdirected.