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Nord Stream blast ordered by Ukraine, say German prosecutors
DW.com • • world
Key Points:
- German prosecutors have accused Ukrainian state authorities of orchestrating the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines, aiming to halt gas supplies and prevent Russia from funding its war efforts.
- The suspect, Serhii K., identified as a Ukrainian army officer, along with six military accomplices, allegedly executed the operation using fake passports and a hired yacht to plant explosives on the pipelines near Denmark.
- Explosives detonated in September 2022 caused significant damage to the pipelines, which were not operational at the time, though Nord Stream 1 previously transported about half of Germany's annual natural gas supply.
- Serhii K. was extradited to Germany from Italy and charged with war crimes and sabotage-related offenses, but he denies involvement and his lawyer expects acquittal.
- The allegations present a potential diplomatic challenge, given Germany's role as a major military supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
