Ukrainian's Legal Battle Over Nordstream Sabotage Handover Intensifies

A Ukrainian man, suspected in the Nordstream pipeline sabotage, challenges his extradition to Germany in Italy’s highest court. The Italian appeals court had previously ordered his transfer, but recent legal maneuvers have stalled the process, highlighting human rights concerns in cross-border justice. The explosions disrupted European energy supplies in 2022.

A Ukrainian man accused of involvement in the sabotage of the Nordstream pipelines in 2022 is renewing his legal battle in Italy's highest court against being handed over to Germany, his defense lawyer announced on Monday.

An appeals court in Bologna recently upheld a decision to extradite Serhii K., as he is known under German privacy laws, to Germany. The Supreme Court hearing is expected within a month, during which time he will remain in Italy.

Defense lawyer Nicola Canestrini emphasized the importance of a thorough examination of international law and human rights in the case. The explosions, seen by Moscow and the West as sabotage, significantly impacted European energy supplies. Serhii K.'s arrest happened in August under a European warrant near Rimini, Italy.

(With inputs from agencies.)