Two submarine cables in the Baltic Sea were severed within 48 hours, prompting Finland, Germany, Lithuania, and Sweden to launch investigations into suspected sabotage. The incidents come amid heightened regional tensions linked to Russia's actions in Ukraine.
The Finnish-operated "C-Lion1" cable between Helsinki and Rostock was severed in Swedish waters near Öland island. Similarly, the "Arelion" cable connecting Gotland to Lithuania sustained material damage. Authorities suspect intentional acts, with Sweden monitoring ship movements in the area.
A Chinese cargo ship, Yi Peng 3, drew attention after being shadowed by Danish navy vessels as it exited the Baltic Sea shortly after the incidents. Officials are investigating its potential connection to the disruptions.
The events echo previous attacks on Baltic infrastructure, including the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline sabotage and the 2023 gas pipeline damage attributed to another Chinese vessel. NATO's increased naval presence in the region underscores growing security concerns in the face of what European leaders describe as "hybrid warfare."
