Ukrainian-backed Divers Destroy Nord Stream Pipeline

Explosive Allegation Unveiled: Ukrainian-backed Divers Blamed for Nord Stream Pipeline Sabotage

In September 2022, an explosion in the Baltic Sea crippled the Nord Stream pipeline, disrupting Russian natural gas exports. The Wall Street Journal recently disclosed that Ukrainian-supported divers orchestrated the blast, led by special operations officer Roman Chervinsky. Financing for the $300,000 operation was provided by Ukrainian businessmen and military personnel, with then-army chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy endorsing the plan, originally sanctioned by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Despite Zelenskyy's attempt to abort the mission following a CIA alert, Zaluzhniy reportedly pursued an altered course of action.

The attack on the Russia-Germany joint venture, viewed as a means to heighten European reliance on Russian energy, levies profound repercussions. Denying involvement, Ukraine faces potential strain in its relationship with Germany, a crucial supporter in its war endeavors. Germany, burdened with a daily $1 million expense in the quest for alternative energy supplies, grapples with the aftermath of the pipeline's destruction.

Key Takeaways

• Ukrainian-backed divers allegedly blew up the Nord Stream pipeline in September 2022.
• The operation was reportedly financed by Ukrainian businessmen and backed by then-army chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy.
• President Zelenskyy initially approved the plan but halted it after a CIA tip-off.
• Despite the halt, Zaluzhniy allegedly pushed forward with a modified version of the plan.
• The attack aimed to disrupt a major Russian export route, increasing European dependence on Russia for energy.

Analysis

The Nord Stream pipeline sabotage, attributed to Ukrainian-backed divers, complicates Ukraine-Germany ties and impacts global energy markets. Financed by Ukrainian businessmen and supported by then-army chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy, the operation aimed to reduce European reliance on Russian gas. Despite President Zelenskyy's attempt to halt it post-CIA warning, the attack succeeded, straining relations and costing Germany $1 million daily in alternative energy expenses. Short-term consequences include energy price hikes and diplomatic tensions, while long-term impacts may reshape energy alliances and security strategies in Europe.

Did You Know?

• Nord Stream Pipeline:
  • The Nord Stream pipeline is a series of offshore natural gas pipelines that run from Russia to Germany through the Baltic Sea. It was a significant infrastructure project aimed at increasing the supply of Russian natural gas to the European market, particularly to Germany. The pipeline consists of two parallel lines, Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2, which together have the capacity to transport 110 billion cubic meters of gas per year. The destruction of the pipeline in September 2022 had profound implications for European energy security and geopolitical dynamics.
• Ukrainian-backed divers:
  • In this context, "Ukrainian-backed divers" refers to a group of underwater operatives who are allegedly supported by elements within Ukraine, including special operations officers and businessmen. These divers are reported to have carried out the sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline, using their expertise in underwater operations to plant explosive charges on the pipeline. This action was part of a strategic effort to disrupt Russian natural gas exports to Europe, thereby reducing European dependence on Russian energy.
• Valeriy Zaluzhniy:
  • Valeriy Zaluzhniy is a prominent figure in the Ukrainian military, having served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. His involvement in the alleged sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline, as reported, indicates his support for a covert operation aimed at undermining a key Russian export route. Zaluzhniy's role in this operation, despite President Zelenskyy's attempt to halt it, highlights the complex interplay of military and political interests within Ukraine during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.