I think that the Germans, French etc… realize that they’re in a tough position. I don’t think any of them would prefer to see Russia invade Ukraine. Of course they also don’t want to fight a massive conflict with Russia and they don’t want to los their Nat. gas either.Let’s become dependent on our enemy to heat our homes so our citizens won’t freeze. What could possibly go wrong ?
The question is which of all the options is the least terrible for them? I would argue the increase in gas prices is probably painful, but it beats thousands upon thousands of casualties or Russian global dominance.