Home Globe Sweden detains ship linked to suspected Baltic Sea cable sabotage

Sweden detains ship linked to suspected Baltic Sea cable sabotage

by editor

Swedish authorities have taken custody of a vessel believed to be connected to the damage of a significant data cable that lies beneath the Baltic Sea, extending to Latvia. This action has prompted an inquiry led by prosecutors, who suggest that initial findings indicate the possibility of sabotage. The investigation involves collaboration among Sweden’s police, military, and coast guard.

Military reports and implications for infrastructure security

On Sunday, the Latvian military reported the sighting of two ships in the vicinity where the cable was damaged, raising alarms over potential security breaches in an area crucial for telecommunications. This incident occurs shortly after NATO initiated a new mission in the Baltic Sea, aimed at addressing ongoing threats to underwater infrastructure, specifically targeting repeated attacks on power and telecom cables, with some incidents attributed to Russian involvement.

Responses from Latvia and NATO

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina has confirmed that her government is cooperating closely with Sweden and NATO in response to this recent event. The damaged cable is owned by Latvia’s state broadcaster, LVRTC, which has reported “disruptions in data transmission services.” However, the broadcaster reassured the public that most end users would remain unaffected by the issues.

Earlier this month, NATO launched the “Baltic Sentry” mission, following a series of incidents in 2024 where multiple underwater cables sustained damage or were severed. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the necessity of increased vigilance, stating that the mission would enhance the presence of patrol aircraft, warships, and drones in the region. Although Russia was not explicitly named as responsible for the recent cable damage, Rutte acknowledged the need for heightened monitoring of Moscow’s “shadow fleet”—vessels operating without clear ownership that are suspected of transporting embargoed oil products.

Rutte expressed “grave concern” regarding the damage to critical infrastructure and assured that NATO would take robust action against future threats, including increased boarding of suspicious vessels and, if warranted, their seizure. This follows an investigation by Finnish police into a possible Russian ship’s involvement in sabotaging an electricity cable connecting Finland and Estonia last year.

“There is reason for grave concern regarding the damage to infrastructure,” said Rutte, emphasizing NATO’s commitment to safeguarding the region.

Related Posts