Denmark Closes Investigation Into Nord Stream Pipeline Explosions

• Denmark and Sweden conclude sabotage investigation.

• Germany continues probe into Nord Stream explosions.

• Russia accuses U.S. of staging sabotage.

Pipes at the landfall facilities of the 'Nord Stream 2' gas pipeline are pictured in Lubmin, northern Germany, on Feb. 15, 2022. Denmark on Monday Feb. 26, 2024 joined Sweden in closing its inv

AP

Denmark has officially closed its investigation into the 2022 explosions that damaged the Nord Stream gas pipelines, following Sweden's lead. Authorities in Denmark have determined that deliberate sabotage took place, but there are not sufficient grounds to pursue a criminal case.

The explosions, which targeted the Nord Stream pipelines designed to transport Russian natural gas to Germany, occurred in international waters within Swedish and Danish economic zones. Both countries conducted extensive investigations, with Sweden pointing to a state actor as the likely culprit.

While Denmark and Sweden have concluded their probes, the German federal prosecutor's office continues its investigation without providing further details. The source of the explosions remains a mystery, with Russia accusing the U.S. of staging the sabotage, a claim that Washington denies.

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Germany continues probe into Nord Stream explosions.

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Denmark and Sweden conclude sabotage investigation.

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Russia accuses U.S. of staging sabotage.

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Nord Stream 1 pipeline ruptured, cutting off gas supplies to Germany.

The Nord Stream 1 pipeline was ruptured by the explosions, leading to Russia cutting off gas supplies to Germany. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which was not yet operational, also suffered damage. The incidents occurred underwater in the Baltic Sea, causing environmental damage and releasing significant amounts of methane.

Despite speculation and accusations, no definitive explanation has been reached regarding the perpetrators of the sabotage. Various theories have emerged, including reports of a pro-Ukraine group allegedly involved in the attacks. However, Ukraine has denied any involvement, and German officials have approached the accusations with caution.

The Nord Stream pipeline explosions have had far-reaching implications, contributing to tensions amid Europe's efforts to reduce reliance on Russian energy sources in the wake of the conflict in Ukraine. The incidents underscored concerns about Europe's energy security and highlighted the geopolitical complexities surrounding energy infrastructure in the region.