HELSINKI: NATO will strengthen its presence in the Baltic Sea following suspected sabotage of power and internet cables this week.
Finland seized the “Eagle S,” a ship carrying Russian oil, suspecting its anchor damaged the Estlink 2 power cable.
The incident disrupted a key electricity link between Finland and Estonia and severed several fibre optic internet lines.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb requested NATO support, and Estonia launched naval operations to guard remaining critical infrastructure.
Countries Heighten Security Amid Rising Concerns
Estonia and Lithuania increased Baltic Sea patrols, while Estonia’s justice minister urged updates to maritime laws against sabotage.
The damaged 658 MW Estlink 2 power cable, operational by August 2025, raised fears of increased winter electricity prices.
Finland’s customs service identified the “Eagle S” as part of a shadow fleet dodging sanctions on Russian oil exports.
Despite uncertainty on direct Russian involvement, Finnish and Swedish investigations noted recurring Baltic incidents involving Chinese and Russian-linked vessels.
Growing Threats to Undersea Infrastructure
Baltic nations emphasized strengthening infrastructure protection after incidents targeting power cables, telecom lines, and gas pipelines since 2022.
Lithuania supported Estonian and Finnish proposals for NATO assistance, stressing regional collaboration to counter potential sabotage threats.
Sweden continues investigating last month’s telecom cable breach, suspecting a Chinese ship involved, as Finnish probes into past damages persist.
“We must update maritime laws to outlaw infrastructure damage explicitly,” stated Estonia’s justice minister amid rising regional vigilance.
What is NATO?
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a political and military alliance established in 1949 to promote collective defense and cooperation among member nations. Founded by 12 countries, including the United States, Canada, and several Western European nations, NATO’s core principle is enshrined in Article 5 of its founding treaty, stating that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all.
Over the years, NATO has expanded to include 31 member states, fostering transatlantic security and stability. The organization plays a critical role in deterring aggression, managing crises, and fostering partnerships worldwide.
Beyond defense, NATO addresses global challenges such as cyber threats, terrorism, and emerging technologies. It also supports peacekeeping missions and disaster relief. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, NATO operates as a unified force, blending diplomatic and military tools to ensure the safety and security of its members and partners globally.