Kremlin: Ukraine likely behind explosives near Serbian pipeline

The Kremlin has hinted at possible Ukrainian involvement in the case of explosives found near the TurkStream pipeline in Serbia, although there is no conclusive evidence. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was ‘very likely’ such evidence would emerge.

He also recalled Moscow’s previous accusations that Kyiv had sabotaged energy infrastructure. ‘The situation is potentially very dangerous. This is a vital energy artery that is currently under extreme strain,’ he added, saying he expected Serbia and Hungary to take steps to minimise the risks.

He also referred to recent talks in Ankara, stressing that Moscow considers attacks on pipelines such as TurkStream and Blue Stream unacceptable.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban also reacted to the incident, calling an emergency defence council after the discovery of the explosives. The TurkStream pipeline is a key route for Russian gas supplies to Hungary and an important energy artery in the region.

Orban said Ukraine has long sought to limit Russian energy supplies to Europe, but did not directly blame it for the incident. Ukraine’s foreign ministry denied any link to the explosives.

(reuters, max)