2 C
New York
Monday, February 17, 2025
HomeWORLDSweden Investigates Possible Sabotage of Undersea Cable Linking Latvia

Sweden Investigates Possible Sabotage of Undersea Cable Linking Latvia

Date:

Related stories

European Shares Surge as Leaders Discuss Ukraine Peace Amid Trump Strategy

Paris, February 17, 2025 – European shares broke record...

European Leaders Urgently Address Ukraine Peace Talks Amid Trump’s Russia Strategy

Paris, February 17, 2025 – European leaders are gathering...

Trump Gaza Plan Sparks Arab Unity and Diplomatic Action

Trump Gaza Plan Sparks Arab Unity and Diplomatic Action

Dozens Injured in Munich Car Ramming Ahead of Security Conference

Munich, Germany — February 13, 2025: In a distressing...

Trump and Putin Initiate Talks to End Ukraine Conflict

In a significant development regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war,...

On January 27, 2025, Swedish authorities seized a vessel suspected of being involved in the sabotage of an undersea communications cable connecting Sweden and Latvia. This incident has intensified concerns about security in the Baltic Sea, a region increasingly viewed as a hotspot for geopolitical tensions and espionage.

The damaged cable belongs to Latvia’s State Radio and Television Centre (LVRTC) and was reported to have suffered significant disruptions in data transmission services.

Prosecutors have classified the incident as “aggravated sabotage,” prompting a thorough investigation led by Sweden’s Security Service (SĂ„PO).

The vessel identified as the Vezhen, owned by Navigation Maritime Bulgare, was intercepted by the Swedish coast guard shortly after the damage was reported.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa confirmed that her government had notified Swedish officials about the cable’s condition.

“We are collaborating with our Swedish allies and NATO to investigate the incident,” she stated.

This cooperation reflects the heightened urgency surrounding security in the Baltic region.

This incident is part of a troubling trend of suspected sabotage targeting undersea cables in the Baltic Sea.

Just weeks prior, NATO initiated “Baltic Sentry,” an operation aimed at enhancing surveillance and protection of critical infrastructure following similar incidents.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized that this mission is designed to bolster the alliance’s presence in the area.

Mats Ljungqvist, the prosecutor overseeing the case, stated, “We believe a significant act of sabotage took place in the Swedish economic zone.” The investigation is being conducted with urgency due to its implications for regional security and potential foreign involvement.

The Baltic Sea has become a focal point for hybrid warfare tactics amid rising tensions between NATO and Russia.

Observers have raised concerns regarding possible Russian involvement in these incidents. The Vezhen, a Malta-flagged cargo ship, was reportedly en route from Russia when it was seized.

Alexander Kalchev, CEO of Navigation Maritime Bulgare, denied any wrongdoing and attributed the incident to adverse weather conditions. “I am convinced that we cannot say … that this was a malicious act,” he asserted.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has been in contact with his Latvian counterpart regarding this situation. Both leaders are committed to ensuring that their countries remain vigilant against potential threats to their national security.

The collaboration between Sweden and Latvia highlights the importance of unity among nations bordering the Baltic Sea.

Mattias Lindholm, spokesperson for the Swedish Coast Guard, confirmed that authorities are currently on-site with the confiscated vessel conducting investigative measures. “We are implementing actions as instructed by prosecutors,” he stated.

As investigations continue into this suspected act of sabotage, it underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures around critical undersea infrastructure.

With NATO’s increased military presence in the Baltic Sea and ongoing collaboration between Sweden and Latvia, authorities are determined to prevent future acts of sabotage and ensure the safety of vital communication lines.

Author

  • David Thompson

    David Thompson is a veteran world news reporter with a decade of experience covering global events and their social, political, and economic implications. His comprehensive coverage includes conflict zones, international diplomacy, and major geopolitical developments. David’s insightful analysis and in-depth reporting have earned him recognition as one of the most reliable sources for breaking news from across the globe.

    View all posts

Subscribe

- Never miss a story with notifications

- Gain full access to our premium content

- Browse free from up to 5 devices at once

Latest stories

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!