Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream pipeline attack

The article discusses the involvement of Roman Chervinsky, a Ukrainian special operations forces colonel, in the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022. Chervinsky, known for his deep connections with Ukraine’s intelligence services, is identified as the coordinator of the operation that led to the pipelines' bombing. The operation involved renting a sailboat under fake identities and placing explosives on the pipelines, which led to massive leaks. Chervinsky reportedly took orders from higher-ranking Ukrainian officials, who were in turn connected to General Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraine’s top military officer.

The attack on Nord Stream, which is partly owned by Western companies, targeted civilian infrastructure crucial for Europe's energy supply. Ukraine had previously expressed concerns over Nord Stream allowing Russia to bypass Ukrainian pipelines, affecting Kyiv's transit revenue. Chervinsky, through his attorney, denied involvement in the Nord Stream sabotage.

The article also highlights Chervinsky's significant role in other covert operations, including attempts to capture Russian fighters and efforts related to the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17. Currently, Chervinsky is detained in Kyiv on charges related to a separate operation to lure a Russian pilot to Ukraine. He claims his arrest is political retribution for criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his administration.

U.S. and European officials have expressed concerns over such operations, fearing escalation with Russia. Despite these concerns, the article suggests that some operations were carried out without President Zelensky’s knowledge, directly under military leadership. The report also touches on internal tensions within the Ukrainian government and Chervinsky's critique of Zelensky's advisors.

The Washington Post and Der Spiegel conducted a joint investigation into Chervinsky’s role in the Nord Stream bombing, highlighting the complexities and internal dynamics of the Ukrainian government during wartime.