I too read an article in the NYTimes about the gas issue.  Specifically Germany was giving Russia hell about its credibility in the region and the withholding of gas was a prime example.

I believe from my studies of the politics in the region that is much more about the assertion of national sovereignity of both parties to the dispute and who should control the gas line itself as it runs across the Ukrainian teritory.

This has inspired me to do a post of my own.  Thanks.  I will give you due credit.