In an investigation into damage to vital Baltic Sea cables, Finnish authorities have uncovered an anchor drag mark believed to be caused by the Eagle S, a vessel linked to Russia’s shadow fleet. This marks a significant development in the inquiry into the severed Estlink-2 power cable and several damaged data cables, raising concerns about potential sabotage amid escalating tensions with Russia.
Sami Paila, Finland’s chief investigator, shared that the drag mark stretched for dozens of kilometers, with estimates placing it as long as 100 kilometers. Research conducted underwater confirmed the connection to the Eagle S. However, Paila emphasized that determining whether the incident was deliberate remains a central aspect of the investigation.
Christmas Day Cable Damage
The Estlink-2 cable, a crucial link between Finland and Estonia, was severed on Christmas Day, interrupting energy transmission between the two countries. While the disruption was minimal, the incident raised alarms as it followed earlier sabotage attempts on two data cables and the Nord Stream gas pipelines. These attacks have heightened concerns over the security of Europe’s critical infrastructure.
The Eagle S vessel, now in Finnish custody, was escorted to the port of Porvoo on Saturday for further investigation. Authorities have launched criminal inquiries into aggravated interference with telecommunications, vandalism, and regulatory offenses.
Russia’s Shadow Fleet in the Spotlight
The Eagle S is part of a growing concern surrounding Russia’s shadow fleet—a network of aging, underinsured fuel tankers that skirt Western sanctions imposed due to the war in Ukraine. These vessels are considered environmental and security risks due to their outdated nature and lack of proper insurance coverage. Finnish customs and European Union officials have raised alarms over the potential dangers posed by these ships.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte responded to the recent cable damage by pledging heightened patrols in the Baltic Sea. With Finland joining NATO in 2023 amid growing security concerns, the alliance aims to safeguard the region’s vital energy and communication infrastructure from further sabotage.
Another Disturbance in the Gulf of Finland
In another development, Finnish authorities reported that the M/T Jazz, a tanker registered in Panama, experienced engine failure and began drifting in the Gulf of Finland on Sunday night. The ship was en route to Primorsk, Russia, from Sudan, and had no cargo onboard.
The Finnish Coast Guard dispatched both a tugboat and a patrol vessel to stabilize the ship and prevent any environmental damage. However, Coast Guard officials, including regional director Janne Ryönänkoski, reassured the public that there was no immediate threat to the region’s underwater infrastructure.
EU Condemns Growing Sabotage Activity
The European Union has expressed growing alarm over the increase in sabotage incidents since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, called the damage to the Baltic Sea cables part of a larger pattern of deliberate and coordinated attacks on Europe’s digital and energy systems.
In a statement to the German newspaper Welt, Kallas vowed that the EU would take stronger measures to address the threats posed by Russia’s shadow fleet. She emphasized the need for more coordinated action to protect critical infrastructure across Europe from potential sabotage.
