Polish courts released Ukrainian suspect Wołodymyr Ż. on October 17 after refusing to hand him over to German authorities over Nord Stream sabotage allegations.
Release from Polish Custody
Ukrainian detainee Wołodymyr Ż. was freed on Friday, regaining his freedom, after the Warsaw District Court declined to transfer him to German authorities.
Suspect’s Reaction
“I was surprised it would be so quick, but everything went well. I hope everything will be fine,” said Wołodymyr Ż. in a television interview. When asked how he felt upon the court’s decision, he replied, “I was very satisfied.” He further admitted that his time in detention was difficult, stating, “I have a family; I need to keep looking after my children.”
Denial of German Accusations
In an interview, Wołodymyr Ż. denied committing any crime in Germany or against Germans. He said, “All Ukrainian divers could be accused just like me,” adding that he was shocked to learn of the accusations. He thanked Polish and Ukrainian supporters and noted uncertainty about when his diving gear, handed to Germany, would be returned.
Court Decision on European Arrest Warrant
The Warsaw court’s refusal means the European Arrest Warrant issued by the German Federal Court of Justice cannot be executed. The court also cancelled the 40‑day detention initially imposed on the suspect.
Background: Nord Stream Sabotage
The sabotage of three of the four bridges of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines occurred on September 26, 2022. The pipeline had been operational since 2011, transporting natural gas from Russia to Germany.
