Opinion | The Best Defense Against the Energy Weapon: Big Oil

Since Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, Europe has feared that the Russian leader might use his hold over global energy supplies to further his war aims. The sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea last week only exacerbated those concerns. Though Mr. Putin hasn’t claimed responsibility for the attack, the bombing represents a dangerous escalation aimed at the foundation of Western economies.

But the West isn’t helpless in defending itself against a weaponized energy sector. Its greatest asset will be found in its corporations, not in conventional armies. There is no better example than the Yom Kippur War, the last time the energy weapon was deployed in earnest.