Denmark has concluded its investigation into the 2022 explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines, joining Sweden in dropping the case due to insufficient evidence for prosecution, authorities said Monday, Feb. 26, 2024.

The multi-billion dollar pipelines transporting Russian gas under the Baltic Sea were ruptured by blasts in September 2022, releasing vast amounts of methane. 

The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine seven months prior.

While Danish authorities confirmed deliberate sabotage as the cause, they stated, "there are not sufficient grounds to pursue a criminal case in Denmark," according to a Copenhagen police statement.

The Danish decision follows a similar path to Sweden's, which ended its investigation earlier in February, citing jurisdictional limitations. However, they shared their findings with German investigators to aid in their ongoing probe. 

Last year, Germany informed the U.N. Security Council about finding traces of explosives on a sailing yacht potentially involved, suggesting the use of trained divers.

With the culprits behind the multibillion-dollar project remaining a mystery, Russia and the West have been embroiled in a diplomatic standoff since the Ukraine invasion, mutually accusing each other of responsibility, with both denying any involvement. 

The Kremlin called the current situation "close to absurd," claiming recognition of sabotage without further progress.