(S+) Nord Stream: How Early Did the CIA Know about the Pipeline Attack?
Der Spiegel
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article reveals that the CIA may have had prior knowledge of the sabotage of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines in 2022, as suggested by meetings between U.S. intelligence officials and Ukrainian operatives in Kyiv. According to sources, these discussions took place in the spring of 2022, when Ukraine was seeking ways to disrupt Russian energy exports. The Ukrainians proposed targeting the Nord Stream pipelines, which transport gas from Russia to Germany, as a means to undermine Moscow's war effort. The CIA reportedly approved of this plan, and further meetings between the two sides are said to have occurred.
The article highlights that the CIA’s alleged involvement in these discussions raises significant questions about U.S. involvement in the attack. While the exact details remain unclear, the revelations suggest a level of coordination between American intelligence and Ukrainian operatives that could have far-reaching implications for international relations. The attack on Nord Stream, which caused extensive damage to energy infrastructure, has been widely criticized as counterproductive, both economically and politically.
This story is significant because it sheds new light on the role of external actors in one of the most controversial attacks in recent history. If verified, it could rewrite perceptions of U.S. involvement in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The implications for energy security, geopolitical stability, and international law are profound, making this a critical topic for readers interested in global affairs.
Verticals
worldeurope
Originally published on Der Spiegel on 2/19/2026