Baltic gas pipelines linking Russia to Germany
EU foreign ministers are discussing the idea of engaging directly with Russia to end the Ukraine war, with Kyiv urging Europe to take a strong role. Names floated for a potential EU envoy include Angela Merkel, Mario Draghi, and Sauli Niinistö, though Brussels remains cautious about impartiality amid stalled US-led negotiations.
Prosecutors have filed a formal case in Berlin, linking a Russian suspect to suspected violations of Germany’s foreign-trade rules and attempted anticonstitutional sabotage. The investigation follows Gazprom Germania’s controversial liquidation and the government’s 2018-2022 nationalization to safeguard gas supplies amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Oil prices have fallen back as flows resume through the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent near pre-war levels and traders citing improved supply and easing demand concerns amid China’s reduced imports. Markets warn the rally could resume if security holds and demand rebounds.
CSIS estimates show Russia has suffered about 450,000 killed and Ukraine 125,000–150,000 deaths since 2022. Total casualties exceed 2 million for both sides, with Kyiv and Moscow trading heavy blows as drone and missile strikes continue. The data highlights a grim, grinding war with high losses and strategic strain.
Prosecutors have charged a Ukrainian former officer identified as Serhii K. with directing an attack on the Nord Stream pipelines in 2022. The suspect has denied involvement. The indictment accuses him of leading a team that planted explosives to permanently halt gas deliveries to Germany. The case ties Kyiv to the sabotage under international sanctions and energy security concerns.
Ukrainian authorities have detained a serving military intelligence officer and a former law-enforcement officer and a Kyiv court has ordered both held without bail after the body of Anastasiia Berezovska — wanted in a June 29 bombing in Monaco — was found with gunshot wounds. One suspect initially confessed, led investigators to the grave, then retracted and blamed his co-defendant. President Zelenskyy has said he will publish further reports.