EU Pledges Action on Russian “Shadow Fleet” After Baltic Sea Cable Damage

Recent damage to undersea cables in the Baltic Sea has prompted renewed efforts by the European Union to enhance the protection of critical infrastructure, amid concerns over potential sabotage. The European Union has praised Finland for its “swift and determined actions” in detaining individuals suspected of involvement in the incident.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas addressed the situation in a January 1 post on X.

“The Baltic Sea has seen a clear pattern of disruption since the start of Russia’s war. Europe’s critical infrastructure remains at high risk of sabotage,” Kallas said.

She highlighted Finland’s rapid response to the suspected sabotage.

“I thank Finland for taking swift and determined action in seizing the ship and crew suspected of damaging subsea cables yesterday,” she added.

Kallas stressed that Europe must remain vigilant in the face of growing threats.

“The EU will continue to fortify its critical infrastructure, including by investing in new cables, strengthening surveillance, ensuring more repair capacity, and moving against Moscow’s shadow fleet, which also acts as a launchpad for hybrid attacks,” Kallas stated.

Earlier, it was reported that Finnish authorities detained the cargo vessel Fritzburg after it was observed in the country’s exclusive economic zone under suspicious circumstances.

The ship is being investigated for potential involvement in the damage of an undersea telecommunications cable in the Gulf of Finland.

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