The European Union believes sabotage is likely the cause of leaks from the Nord Stream I and II gas pipelines and is threatening countermeasures.

The top diplomat said on behalf of all member states on Wednesday.

“The European Union is deeply concerned about damage to the Nord Stream I and II pipelines that has resulted in leaks in the international waters of the Baltic Sea,“ EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement. “These incidents are not a coincidence and affect us all.’’

He said all of the available information indicated that the leaks were the result of a deliberate act.

“We will support any investigation aimed at getting full clarity on what happened and why, and will take further steps to increase our resilience in energy security,’’ he said.

Mr Borrell said any deliberate disruption of European energy infrastructure was unacceptable and would be met with a “robust and united response.’’

Three leaks were found in the pipelines that carry gas from Russia to Europe via the Baltic Sea, in the exclusive economic zones of Denmark and Sweden off the Danish island of Bornholm.

(dpa/NAN)