The high-profile Nord Stream sabotage trial began on Wednesday in Hamburg, Germany. Serhii Kuznietsov, a former Ukrainian special forces officer, stands accused of orchestrating the 2022 attack. This operation disabled the undersea Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines, which linked Russia to Germany.
Prosecutors allege Kuznietsov committed a war crime by targeting civilian infrastructure. However, his defense lawyers immediately sought to dismiss the entire case. They presented several grounds for their arguments in court.
Defense attorney Nicola Canestrini challenged the core premise. He contended the pipelines were not civilian infrastructure at all. Instead, Canestrini argued, the Nord Stream network functioned as a “Russian weapon.” This designation stemmed from energy revenues funding Moscow’s military efforts.
“Is it unlawful to destroy an aggressor’s infrastructure without harming any human beings?” Canestrini directly asked the court. Following the charges, Kuznietsov himself declined to comment when questioned by the judge. His lawyers cited an oath of secrecy as the reason for his silence.
They explained Kuznietsov is bound by his home government in Ukraine. Therefore, he cannot discuss the case or potential exculpatory evidence. This restriction even applies to his legal team. Defense attorney Jes Meyer-Lohkamp highlighted this point. “He is not permitted to speak,” Meyer-Lohkamp stated. He added, “Anyone who cannot speak out cannot be convicted” under German law.
The Nord Stream sabotage trial garnered significant public and media attention in Hamburg. Journalists and observers filled the courtroom shortly after doors opened. Outside, a small pro-Ukraine demonstration occurred, displaying banners. Meanwhile, Ukrainian students traveled from Kyiv to support Kuznietsov, labeling him a “hero.”
This case presents a politically sensitive situation for Germany. Berlin remains a staunch supporter of Ukraine despite the investigation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had previously denied any involvement. He also resisted Kuznietsov’s extradition from Italy last year.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul refrained from specific comments on Wednesday. He stressed the importance of the case proceeding without political interference. Wadephul affirmed Germany would accept any outcome, factoring it into future political calculations. Court dates are currently scheduled through February next year.
