Riga, Latvia – Latvian authorities have launched an investigation into damage sustained by a vital undersea fiber optic cable connecting Latvia and Sweden. The incident is believed to be the result of external interference, according to official sources.
The damage occurred early Sunday within Sweden's exclusive economic zone, affecting the cable that links the Latvian city of Ventspils to Sweden's Gotland island. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa noted the damage was "likely external and significant" following an emergency government meeting.
In response, the Latvian navy has deployed a patrol vessel to inspect a ship suspected of involvement. Two additional vessels in the area are also under scrutiny.
Latvia is collaborating with NATO and neighboring Baltic Sea countries to understand the cause of the incident. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson confirmed Sweden’s cooperation in the investigation, offering significant resources to determine the incident's nature.
This event occurs amidst heightened tensions in the Baltic region, following various disruptions to energy and communication infrastructure since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. NATO has announced plans to deploy frigates, patrol aircraft, and drones in the Baltic Sea to safeguard important infrastructure as part of its "Baltic Sentry" initiative.
In a related development, Finnish authorities recently seized a Russian oil tanker suspected of damaging the Finnish-Estonian power line and multiple telecommunications cables by dragging its anchor along the seabed.
Officials are urging vigilance as investigations continue, emphasizing the strategic importance of maintaining secure communication networks in the region.
