Sweden is requesting that a Chinese vessel return to Swedish waters to help with investigations into recent breaches of undersea fiber-optic cables in the Baltic Sea, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated. The damages occurred to two subsea cables linking Finland and Germany, as well as Sweden to Lithuania, within a span of less than 24 hours in November. German and Lithuanian investigations also implicated the Chinese bulk carrier Yi Peng 3, which had left a Russian port days before the incidents. The ship is currently located in international waters within Denmark’s exclusive economic zone.
Despite not making any direct accusations, Sweden seeks clarity on the events surrounding the cable breaches. Western intelligence officials believe the Chinese ship was responsible, but opinions differ on whether the damages were intentional or accidental. China, however, has maintained support for international cable security in accordance with international law.
Prior incidents of damaged undersea cables in the region have raised concerns of potential sabotage. Investigations into these incidents can be complex, with proving intent being a significant challenge. Finland had experienced similar cable damage in 2023, which authorities attributed to a Chinese ship causing it unintentionally. Russia has denied any involvement in the recent cable breaches.
Swedish authorities hope that China will cooperate in moving the ship for further investigation. Overall, the multiple investigations show the importance of protecting international submarine cable infrastructure and understanding the events behind their disruptions.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
