North Dakota Jury Awards $660M to Energy Transfer Against Greenpeace

A North Dakota jury has ordered Greenpeace to pay over $660 million to Energy Transfer, the operator of the Dakota Access Pipeline, after finding the organization liable for defamation and conspiracy related to protests against the pipeline. Energy Transfer accused Greenpeace of orchestrating a 'malicious publicity campaign' that harmed its financial relationships and caused delays in construction. Advocacy groups have condemned the verdict, labeling it a 'weaponization of the legal system' aimed at silencing free speech and protest rights, particularly for indigenous groups like the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, who were involved in the protests. Climate advocacy group 350.org expressed solidarity with Greenpeace, asserting that the ruling undermines grassroots activism and sets a dangerous precedent for environmental organizations. Greenpeace plans to appeal the verdict, asserting that its involvement in the protests was minimal and primarily in support of local indigenous rights. The case raises concerns about the implications for the First Amendment and the ability of activists to challenge corporate interests safely.