Germany won't approve Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia after Putin's move in Ukraine

The $11 billion pipeline was completed late last year, but certification was needed for it to become operational

Germany on Tuesday halted the certification of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that was built to double the amount of gas flowing from Russia, following Russian leader Vladimir Putin saying he plans to send troops into eastern Ukraine.

The $11 billion pipeline was completed late last year, but the certification was needed for it to become operational, according to CNBC.

"In light of the most recent developments we must reassess the situation in particular regarding Nord Stream 2," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said.

Scholz made the decision the day after Putin said Russia would recognize the independence of two self-proclaimed and pro-Russian republics in eastern Ukraine, then said he would send Russian troops into the region on a "peacekeeping" mission.

Western leaders think Putin's moves are the first steps in a plan to invade Ukraine. The Russian leader has been amassing troops around Ukraine for weeks and months, in a show of force and opposition to what he considers Western encroachment in Ukraine and other former Soviet bloc countries.