German probe of Nord Stream sabotage targets yacht Andromeda, Ukrainian diver

In September 2022, underwater explosions ruptured the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea, releasing the largest single methane discharge on record and halting the flow of Russian gas to Europe. German federal prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation, concentrating on the 50‑foot sailing yacht *Andromeda*, which was chartered in Rostock through a Polish shell company. Forensic analysis recovered traces of the military‑grade explosive HMX on the vessel. An arrest warrant was issued in 2024 for Volodymyr Z., a Ukrainian diving instructor who lived in Poland and is alleged to have helped plant the charges, though he denies involvement.

The sabotage has fueled intense geopolitical debate. Russia blames Western powers, while the United States rejects the accusation. Analysts note the attack has accelerated Europe’s shift toward alternative LNG supplies and heightened scrutiny of critical energy infrastructure. Environmental agencies underscore the methane release’s contribution to greenhouse‑gas concentrations, and the incident remains under investigation with no government claiming responsibility.