Vote on Nord Stream 2 sanctions puts Democrats in a bind

With U.S. officials in Europe for talks with Russia this week, Democrats face an uncomfortable choice - either buck U.S. President Joe Biden or vote against sanctions on a pipeline they have long publicly opposed, Axios writes.

In late December, senator Ted Cruz reached a deal with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to release his hold on 32 nominees in exchange for the Senate holding a vote on Nord Stream 2 sanctions by Jan. 14.

Assuming all Republicans vote in favor, the bill needs 10 Senate Democrats to reach the 60-vote threshold to pass.