How Early Did CIA Know About Nord Stream Attack? | RealClearPolitics
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by Lehberger & Schmid, Der SpiegelFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article "How Early Did CIA Know About Nord Stream Attack?" by Roman Lehberger & Fidelius Schmid for Der Spiegel explores critical questions about U.S. intelligence's awareness of the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage. The piece delves into when and how the CIA learned about the attack, which caused significant methane leaks in the Baltic Sea in September 2022. The findings raise important implications for international relations and energy security.
According to the investigation, U.S. intelligence had prior knowledge of potential attacks on critical infrastructure in the region. However, key details about when and how this information was obtained remain unclear. The article suggests that while the CIA may have been aware of the threat, there is no evidence of direct involvement or complicity in the attack itself. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to understanding the roles of various actors in the incident.
The timing of the CIA's knowledge becomes particularly significant given the geopolitical context. The Nord Stream sabotage occurred during heightened tensions between Russia and Western countries over Ukraine. The article questions whether U.S. intelligence shared its information with allies or took steps to prevent the attack, highlighting potential gaps in international cooperation and response strategies.
Ultimately, this story matters because it touches on critical issues of national security, energy stability, and diplomatic trust. The findings could influence ongoing investigations into the attack and shape future policies on infrastructure protection. For readers interested in politics and foreign policy, the article provides a deeper understanding of how intelligence agencies operate in crisis situations and their impact on global affairs.
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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/20/2026