German prosecutors confirmed the arrest of Ukrainian citizen Serhii K., suspected of helping organize the Nord Stream explosions. Authorities detained him overnight in Italy’s Rimini province. Prosecutors said he allegedly served as one of the operation’s coordinators.
Explosions Deepen Europe’s Energy Strains
Explosions on September 26, 2022, ruptured Nord Stream 1, Russia’s main gas route to Germany until Moscow halted supplies. The blasts also damaged Nord Stream 2, which never operated after Germany froze its certification before the invasion of Ukraine. The damage intensified Europe’s efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy after Moscow’s full-scale assault on Ukraine.
Disputes Over Responsibility Persist
Russia accused the United States of staging the attack, but Washington rejected the claim. The US and allies long warned that Nord Stream pipelines threatened European energy security by tying it to Russian gas. In 2023, German media reported a pro-Ukraine group carried out the sabotage. Ukraine denied involvement, while German officials urged caution before assigning blame.
