Italy has authorized the extradition of a Ukrainian national suspected in the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines, Italian news agency ANSA reported November 20, 2023. The decision follows months of legal proceedings and marks a notable development in the multinational investigation into the attacks that crippled critical energy infrastructure.
The Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines, constructed to deliver russian natural gas to Germany via the baltic Sea, sustained severe damage from underwater explosions in September 2022, near the Danish island of Bornholm. The incidents prompted widespread international concern and accusations of foul play, occurring six months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. While Nord Stream 1 had been actively transporting gas, Nord Stream 2 remained incomplete and had not begun operations. Investigations suggest the pipelines were rendered unusable after multiple detonations.
German authorities allege the suspect was part of a seven-person team led by an individual identified as “K.” The group reportedly chartered a sailing yacht, the “Andromeda,” from germany to carry out the operation, utilizing four divers. Another Ukrainian suspect was briefly detained in Poland but was not extradited to Germany following a Polish court ruling.
The extradition from Italy is expected to facilitate further investigation by German authorities into the planning and execution of the pipeline attacks. The case remains sensitive,with geopolitical implications extending beyond the immediate criminal investigation.
