Nord Streams 1 & 2 are major natural gas pipelines that run under the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany. Nord Stream 1 has been operating and used for several years but Nord Stream 2 had been completed and is available for operation but has never been used yet. Each system has 2 pipelines and both of the Nord Stream 1 pipes were damaged in the explosion back on September 26, 2022 and only 1 of the Nord Stream 2 pipes was damaged. This leaves 1 out of the 4 pipes available for deliveries, if wanted.
Seismologists in Denmark and Sweden reported large blasts in the vicinity of the pipelines and they definitely ruled out earthquakes. So deliberate explosions to damage or destroy the pipelines is the most reasonable explanation. But who would be capable of doing so?
The execute such an operation to damage the Nord Stream pipeline system would need Underwater Unmanned Vehicles (UUVs), literally an underwater drone armed with explosives. There are only a few armed forces capable of using this technology: The US, Russia and UK. The UK are NATO allies of the U.S. and unlikely to launch the attack without coordinating with the U.S. So, as a practical matter, the U.S. and Russia are the prime suspects.
To solve such mystery it is important to look at the motives. Russia has none, because they could simply switch off the gas when they want and turn it back on again, when needed. Why would they damage such an expensive project, with no need at all? Further, being able to switch off and on again, gives them some leverage in negotiations. It they destroy or even only damage the pipelines, this leverage is gone. So, why would they want to give up the leverage by sabotaging their own pipeline?
But the US would have plenty to gain from taking out Nord Stream that was always a thorn in their eye. Europe is now forced to buy expensive US gas. This also demonstrates that gas is not only a commodity of economic importance to Europe but also of strategic importance.
The US is the only party who is capable and has a motive to damage Nord Stream. The perfect reason for being all quiet about it.
Sven Franssen
Sven Franssen