An investigation has been launched in Sweden regarding suspected sabotage of an undersea telecom cable linked to Germany and Finland. This comes amid heightened security tensions related to potential Russian threats, leading to NATO's increased monitoring in the Baltic Sea.
Sweden Probes Possible Sabotage of Undersea Cable Amid Security Concerns
Sweden Probes Possible Sabotage of Undersea Cable Amid Security Concerns
Swedish authorities investigate damage to undersea telecoms cable as NATO enhances monitoring in the Baltic Sea region.
Swedish police are conducting an investigation into suspected sabotage involving an undersea telecom cable that connects Germany and Finland, situated in the Baltic Sea. This incident is part of broader concerns regarding the security of vital infrastructure, especially since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. NATO has initiated a focused mission to monitor activities in the Baltic Sea, following reports of damage to multiple cables and pipelines in the region.
The Swedish coastguard has deployed a research vessel to investigate the situation near Gotland, the largest island in Sweden and the area where the cable breach was reported. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has acknowledged the incident, emphasizing its significance in light of the ongoing security challenges facing the region.
Cinia, the Finnish company that owns the damaged cable, confirmed detection of minor damage although the cable continues to operate normally. This marks the third incident affecting this particular cable in recent months, with another complete severance occurring in November of the previous year. The risk of damage to undersea infrastructure has escalated, often attributed to civilian ships inadvertently dragging anchors across cables.
While investigators have pointed towards "suspected sabotage", Swedish authorities have also noted that shifting weather patterns, improper equipment, and human error may have contributed to some incidents. Earlier this month, a Bulgarian vessel, the Vezhen, was cleared of any wrongdoing after being investigated for its involvement in the cable damage. As investigations continue, European leaders remain wary of potential Russian involvement, heightening tensions within the region.
