The Nord Stream 1 pipeline is missing a turbine that's keeping natural-gas flows out of Russia slow, and Russia and Germany are caught in a blame game over it

Russia and Germany are in a blame game over the missing turbine that is keeping natural gas flows from Russia to Europe slower.

Natural-gas flows via theNord Stream 1 to Germany have been cut twice in the last two months. A turbine's hold-up in Canada as a result of war-related sanctions led to a cut in flows to 40% of the capacity. Natural-gas flow to Germany was reduced to 20% of capacity in July due to a second turbine that needed maintenance.

Canada agreed to waive sanctions and return the first repaired turbine to Russia in order to ensure continued gas flows in Europe. On July 13, the company said it didn't have the required paperwork.

The first turbine is in Germany waiting to be shipped to Russia. The equipment in Germany was ready for action at any time according to the Chancellor. There is no reason why it can't be moved to Russia.

According to The New York Times, Christian Bruch, the head ofSiemens Energy, said the company wants to return the turbine.

The turbine's return to Russia is dependent on documentation proving it isn't subject to sanctions, according to the Kremlin.

Europe depends on Russia for 40% of its natural gas needs. Russia has slowed natural-gas flows to countries in the region as some buyers refused to pay in rubles, and on the back of the turbine drama.

If Russian gas is cut completely, German industry leaders warn of economic hardship. Europe's largest economy has begun to turn off heating and lights in the summer to save energy.