美媒爆料：“北溪”爆炸是乌克兰高层指挥

Core Viewpoint - The recent investigation by German authorities indicates that the "Nord Stream" pipeline explosions were carried out by a Ukrainian elite unit under the direct supervision of then-Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi [1][3]. Investigation Details - Over the past three years, German police have tracked ship rentals, communication devices, and license plate information to identify Ukrainian military personnel involved in the "Nord Stream" explosions [3]. - The investigation utilized facial recognition technology and social information comparison to confirm the identities of Ukrainian deep-sea divers involved in the operation [3]. - The sabotage was reportedly ordered by high-ranking Ukrainian military officials to disrupt Russian energy revenues and its economic ties with Germany [3]. - Arrest warrants have been issued for three Ukrainian special forces soldiers and four divers involved in the operation [3]. Background on the Nord Stream Pipeline - The "Nord Stream" pipeline is a critical infrastructure for transporting natural gas from Russia to Germany and Europe, stretching 760 miles [6]. - Following the outbreak of the Ukraine crisis in February 2022, the pipeline's fate became a focal point in discussions about Western sanctions against Russia [6]. - In September 2022, a series of explosions occurred, leading to significant methane leaks, marking it as the largest man-made greenhouse gas release in history [6]. Legal Proceedings and Diplomatic Implications - A Ukrainian commander involved in the case was apprehended in Italy, and his lawyer is arguing against extradition based on "military action immunity" [7]. - The Italian court is set to decide in December whether to extradite the suspect to Germany, with potential delays due to the suspect's hunger strike [7]. - If extradition occurs, Germany may face a diplomatic dilemma, as it is a major supporter of Ukraine, and the judicial process could exacerbate tensions between Germany and Ukraine [8].