The European Commission proposed rules amendments that would extend EU natural gas regulations to offshore pipelines.  On its face, nothing particularly surprising.  The changes clarify rules applications to all gas pipelines to and from third parties.  But the regulatory move may be intended to halt an energy link between Russia and Germany, the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.  The Baltic Sea Nord Stream 2 link would double the natural gas volume from Russia’s PAO Gazprom to Europe – via Germany.  EU members are split on the issue, some opposing and some supporting (led of course by Germany).  Under US law, the President may impose measures against Nord Stream 2 also.  The first Nord Stream pipeline had – and does not now have – any international agreements governing its operations.  Nord Stream 2 has a host of significant corporate supporters and investors.  Political discomfort with the rising power of Russia may interfere; but is the effort against the pipeline enough, and in time?  How strong will Moscow become, through supplying energy to Europe?