Numerous incidents of suspected Russian-linked sabotage of undersea cables in the Baltic Sea have heightened tensions among nearby countries, leading to an increased NATO presence. The latest incident involved the Swedish coast guard boarding a ship suspected of damage to vital cables. Russia has denied involvement, but concerns remain about potential threats to critical infrastructure.
Numerous incidents of suspected Russian-linked sabotage of undersea cables in the Baltic Sea has seen tensions rise among nearby countries, and an increased Nato presence.
Critical undersea infrastructure can be easily damaged by anchor dragging. Russia has denied involvement in these incidents. What’s the context? In recent months there have been several reports of damage being caused to undersea cables by vessels as they pass through the Baltic Sea. Attacks on undersea cables are comparable to traditional espionage and information operations . This is activity conducted at the level below that of warfare, designed to send certain signals to adversarial nations.
Investigations into apparent threats can be conducted without actually seizing the vessel or impeding its progress in any way. This can done through the use of GPS tracking data and combining that with other evidence such as eye witness testimony. Many merchant vessels are registered in overseas territories, and ownership can be hard to track. This gives a degree of plausible deniability over who may have ordered or overseen the operations that might have damaged cables.
But this increased naval presence in the Baltic could act as a deterrent and provide greater security to the cables. Sweden has now boarded a vessel. But another obstacle here is that the nation where the vessel is registered is under absolutely no obligation to cooperate with any investigation.
BALTIC SEA RUSSIA SABOTAGE UNDERSEA CABLES NATO
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Russia-Linked Vessel Suspected in Baltic Sea Power Cable DamageFinnish investigators have discovered anchor drag marks on the seabed, potentially linked to a Russia-associated vessel seized on suspicion of damaging an undersea power cable connecting Finland and Estonia. The ship's owner is seeking its release. The investigation, focusing on 'grave sabotage,' could take several months to complete.
Read more »
Sixty-mile drag mark found near damaged Baltic Sea cable, says FinlandElectricity cable link to Estonia was damaged on Christmas Day in suspected Russian act of sabotage
Read more »
NATO boosts military presence in Baltic Sea as fears over Russian sabotage attacks growThe Baltic Sea region is on high alert as fears grow that Russia could target undersea cables as part of a wider campaign of so-called 'hybrid warfare'.
Read more »
Nato flotilla assembles off Estonia to protect undersea cables in Baltic SeaTaskforce to act as ‘security camera of the Baltic’ after string of suspected sabotage incidents on critical infrastructure
Read more »
Australia Marks Holocaust Anniversary Amid Rising Antisemitism and Political TensionsAustralia commemorates the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz amidst a surge in antisemitism and political sparring over the government's response. Prime Minister Albanese pledges funding for a new Holocaust education center while the opposition criticizes the government's handling of the issue. The event underscores the enduring relevance of Holocaust remembrance in the face of contemporary challenges.
Read more »
Israeli Ambassador Seeks to Explain Israel's Position Amidst Rising TensionsAmir Maimon, Israel's ambassador to Australia, aims to clarify Israel's perspective in the Middle East, particularly in light of the recent Hamas attacks and the escalating Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasizes the importance of trade, defense, and technological cooperation while striving to maintain a strong relationship with Australia.
Read more »