The Italian Supreme Court has decided to hand over Ukrainian suspect Serhij K. to Germany after his lawyer’s appeal, as the man begins a hunger strike over detention conditions.
Supreme Court Approves Transfer After Appeal
The Italian Supreme Court issued a decision to transfer Serhij K. to Germany on the same day his lawyer lodged an appeal against the appellate court’s ruling in Bologna.
Following the decision, the court allowed the man to be handed over to German justice authorities. According to his lawyer, Nicolò Canestrini, the transfer should occur within a few days, and the suspect faces a potential 15‑year sentence in Germany.
Serhij K. Begins Hunger Strike Over Detention Conditions
Shortly after the decision, Serhij K. started a hunger strike to protest the conditions of his detention and the inadequate diet for his health. He suffers from pancreatitis and celiac disease, requiring a special diet.
The strike ended once the Italian authorities assured him of full respect for his rights.
German Claims of Sabotage Coordination
Germany alleges that Serhij K. not only participated in, but coordinated the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline. The Ukrainian denies any involvement in the destruction of the gas pipe.
Poland Refuses to Hand Over Wołodymyr Z. to Germany
The Warsaw District Court denied Germany the surrender of Ukrainian suspect Wołodymyr Z., also alleged in the Nord Stream sabotage. This ruling prevents the execution of the European Arrest Warrant against Z.
European Arrest Warrant and Legal Proceedings
Serhij K. was arrested in Rimini on a European Arrest Warrant three months ago. The European Court of Justice has issued a decision on the German Federal Court of Justice’s request to prosecute him, and a court ruling lifted his detention, allowing appeal to the appellate court.
