Both Nord Stream pipelines supplying gas from Russia suffer 'unprecedented' damage

The Nord Stream pipeline which supplies Russian gas throughout Europe has suffered 'unprecedented' damage and is now leaking into the Baltic Sea near Sweden and Denmark, sparking concerns over foul play.

Sweden's Maritime Authority issued a warning about two leaks in the Nord Stream 1 pipeline last night, shortly after a leak on the nearby Nord Stream 2 pipeline was discovered that prompted Denmark to restrict shipping in the area.

Both pipelines have been flashpoints in an escalating energy war between Europe and Moscow amid Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine that has pummelled major Western economies and sent gas prices soaring.

"There are some indications that it is deliberate damage," said a European security source, while adding it was still too early to draw conclusions. "You have to ask: Who would profit?"

Russia also said the leak in the Russian network was cause for concern and sabotage was one possible cause. "No option can be ruled out right now," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.