Ukrainian suspect arrested in Croatia over Nord Stream sabotage

German federal prosecutors announced on August 19, 2026, the arrest of a Ukrainian national, identified as Vladimir Z., in the Croatian city of Pula. The suspect, a professional diver, is accused of participating in the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 natural gas pipelines near the Danish island of Bornholm. According to German authorities, Vladimir Z. was part of a team led by Serhii K., a former military officer who was already charged in July for his alleged role in the operation, which reportedly utilized a sailing vessel launched from Rostock, Germany.

The case has strained relations between Berlin and Kyiv, though Germany remains a key supporter of Ukraine's defense. The investigation faces legal complications, as reports indicate the suspect may be the same individual as Volodymir Zhuravliov, who was previously detained in Poland in 2025. In that instance, a Polish judge rejected a German extradition request, characterizing the act as justified if linked to the conflict, which led to the suspect's release. German authorities are now formally seeking the extradition of Vladimir Z. from Croatia to face charges for his alleged involvement in the pipeline explosions.