That's an interesting article. It appears the Germans are upset because the sanctions would prevent a joint pipeline project between Gazprom and Royal Dutch shell to bring natural gas to Germany. Not only is there a lot of money involved, Europe needs the Russian natural gas. It's a big economic deal. On the other hand, Poland and Ukraine are opposed to the pipeline deal because they would lose money from pipeline royalty payments through their own nations. In addition, Germany and Austria say the sanctions would fine them for pursuing the new pipeline. Germany and Austria say the US should stay out of Europe's economic matters.

Finally, it is Congress that slapped the sanctions on Russia, not the administration.