Ukraine accuses Russia of causing Nord Stream gas leaks
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Kyiv: Ukraine said the leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines were likely caused by a "terrorist attack" carried out by Moscow. The pipelines link Russia to Europe and play a crucial role in the energy supply on the continent.
Kyiv's presidential advisor Mikhaylo Podolyak tweeted: "The large-scale 'gas leak' from Nord Stream 1 is nothing more than a terrorist attack planned by Russia and an act of aggression towards the EU." He added Moscow is seeking to "destabilise the economic situation in Europe and cause pre-winter panic".
Scandinavian authorities said on Tuesday they found two leaks on Nord Stream 1 pipeline in the Baltic Sea back to back. One is in the Danish economic zone and the other is in Sweden. This was hours after a pressure drop was reported in Nord Stream 2.
The Swedish seismological institute said two underwater blasts were recorded prior to the discovery of the gas leaks, reported AFP. Russia also said it could be an act of sabotage and it is "extremely concerned" about the development.
Russia had earlier cut gas supplies to Europe citing technical difficulties. Many alleged that it is Moscow's retaliation for the West's support for Ukraine. Europe is already seeing high fuel prices and the continent is preparing for winter.