Report: Arrest warrant for Ukrainians for explosions in North Stream pipelines
According to a media report, German investigators believe that a Ukrainian man was one of the divers who placed explosive devices on the Nord Stream pipelines. In a phone call with the media, the man expressed surprise at the accusation and denied involvement in the incident.
In September 2022, amidst geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, four large gas leaks were discovered on the two Nord Stream pipelines near the Danish island of Bornholm and the Swedish coast. Shortly before, seismic institutes had recorded two underwater explosions. The pipelines were built for the transport of Russian gas to Germany and were not in operation at the time of the explosions, but contained gas.
Investigations were launched in Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, with the German investigation led by the Federal Police and the Federal Criminal Police Office on behalf of the Federal Prosecutor General.
According to research by ARD, "SZ", and "Die Zeit", German investigators have apparently also identified another man and a woman from Ukraine who are said to be involved in the suspected attacks. They are also divers, but there is currently no arrest warrant against them.
The European Union expressed concern over the suspected attacks on the Nord Stream pipelines and called for a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice. In response to the ongoing investigations, the European Union expressed its commitment to ensuring energy security and stability in the region.
