Ukrainian soldier indicted in Germany over Nord Stream pipeline sabotage

German prosecutors have indicted a Ukrainian soldier, described as the "mastermind" behind the operation, in connection with the sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines. The indictment marks the first formal charges filed in the case.

The suspect, a man in his 50s, is accused of leading a seven-person crew believed to be responsible for the explosions that damaged the pipelines. According to German media reports, including Zeit, the soldier was serving in the Ukrainian army at the time of the incident. He also has a prior connection to Ukrainian security services, having previously worked for the SBU.

The Nord Stream pipelines, which transport natural gas from Russia to Germany, were severely damaged by explosions in September 2022. The exact cause and perpetrators of the sabotage remain a subject of intense international investigation and speculation.