In 2022, reports emerged about the bombing of the Nord Stream pipelines, raising questions about who was responsible. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, in response, suggested that the backers of the gas pipeline project should issue an apology and maintain silence. This came after a deputy denied allegations that Poland had any involvement in the damage caused to the pipelines.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Ukrainian authorities were behind the destruction of both Nord Stream 1 and 2. This sabotage not only isolated Germany from a vital energy source but also exacerbated the energy crisis in Europe.

Germany and Russia were partners in this pipeline venture, which has been a point of contention for Poland due to its perceived negative impact on security interests.

Prime Minister Tusk’s comments were in response to a statement by a former head of Germany’s foreign intelligence agency, August Hanning, who insinuated that Poland supported the attack on the pipelines. However, no evidence was provided to substantiate this claim.

The backlash against these accusations was strong, with Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski dismissing them as Russian-inspired disinformation aimed at destabilizing NATO countries.

Despite the ongoing controversy, Polish prosecutors confirmed that a warrant had been issued for a Ukrainian suspect connected to the pipeline attacks, though he had already left the country.

The Nord Stream project, designed to transport gas from Russia to Europe, faced opposition from various quarters, including Poland, the U.S., and Ukraine. It allowed Russia to bypass traditional transit routes, causing concerns about economic and political repercussions.

In a report by The Wall Street Journal, Ukrainian officials claimed that the pipeline attacks were justified as part of their defense against Russia, although Ukrainian authorities deny involvement.

Nord Stream 1 went operational in 2011, while Nord Stream 2, completed in 2021, never became operational due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.