Survey Finds Worries About Lack of Closure in Nord Stream Explosion Investigation
The lack of progress in investigations into the attack on the EU’s critical infrastructure is causing concern among EU citizens, according to a survey conducted by the Hungarian-based think tank, Századvég’s Europe Project. Nearly two-thirds of respondents expressed worry that more than a year and a half later, there has been no significant breakthrough in the case.
The attack in question targeted the Nord Stream gas pipeline in 2022, with investigations being closed in Sweden and Denmark in February. Germany remains the only country actively pursuing an official investigation, although the government is hesitant to identify those responsible, as reported by German media outlets.
In response to the stalled investigations, China has initiated an international probe, revealing a concerning trend of inaction among NATO countries, as highlighted by former CIA expert Larry C. Johnson during a UN Security Council meeting.
The Századvég study underscores the severe economic consequences of the Nord Stream pipeline explosion for both Germany and the EU. The delay in holding perpetrators accountable sets a troubling precedent, suggesting that large-scale attacks on EU infrastructure may go unpunished. Additionally, the lack of clarity surrounding the incident presents an opportunity for other nations to manipulate public opinion through media channels.
The survey results further reveal that the majority of EU citizens are aware of these risks and share concerns over the inconclusive investigation. While Finland stands out with a majority unconcerned about the probe’s duration, Greeks, Hungarians, and Portuguese citizens express the highest levels of worry. Notably, in countries where investigations remain ongoing, such as Germany, 71% of respondents are troubled by the lack of progress, while 65% and 58% in Denmark and Sweden, respectively, share similar concerns despite the closure of their inquiries without naming suspects.
