A Ukrainian national has been detained in Croatia amid allegations of involvement in the Nord Stream gas pipeline bombings. These incidents have shaken diplomatic ties between Ukraine and Germany, a prominent supporter of Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Details of the Arrest

The man, identified by German prosecutors only as a trained scuba diver, is said to have taken part in the crucial underwater operations to plant explosives on the pipelines in September 2022, shortly after Russia’s extensive invasion of Ukraine. This arrest marks the second apprehension linked to the bombings, which have escalated tensions in international relations.

Background on the Suspect

The suspect is believed to be Volodymyr Zhuravlyov, whose name surfaced when he was previously arrested in Poland in 2025 for his alleged involvement in the underwater sabotage. At that time, a Polish judge declined a German request for extradition, suggesting that if Ukraine were indeed behind the act, it could be viewed as justified. Zhuravlyov’s release surprised many at the court, marking a curious twist in the ongoing investigation.

Additional Suspects

The other individual accused in this case is Serhiy Kuznetsov, a former officer in the Ukrainian military. Arrested in Italy in August 2025, he has since been extradited to Germany and is facing trial. Kuznetsov has maintained his innocence regarding the explosions and recently appeared in a German court.

Prosecutors assert that Kuznetsov led a group that allegedly utilized a yacht rented in Rostock, Germany, to install explosives near the pipelines situated off the coast of the Danish Baltic Sea island of Bornholm. Despite the operational status of Nord Stream 1 at the time, Nord Stream 2 had not yet commenced services.

Implications of the Bombings

The explosions significantly damaged a contentious energy supply route from Russia to Germany, initially drawing suspicion towards Moscow. However, indications of Ukrainian involvement soon came to light, leading to repeated denials from Kyiv.

Regional Politics

Poland has long opposed the pipeline project with Russia, criticizing it for increasing Germany’s reliance on Moscow. Additionally, this arrangement denied Poland essential transit fees for the gas. Both Ukraine and the United States have traditionally voiced their disapproval of the pipelines.