Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called for a joint initiative among Baltic and Nordic nations to enhance the security of Baltic Sea waters, following alarming incidents of severed telecom cables in the region.
Recent Incidents Spark Concerns
On 17 and 18 November 2023, two undersea telecom cables were cut in Swedish territorial waters, leading to investigations by Swedish and Finnish police. Authorities suspect the incidents may be linked to sabotage amid ongoing tensions from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Tusk’s Proposal for Naval Security
During a press conference held on 27 November in Stockholm, Tusk emphasised the urgency of creating a Baltic Sea policing mission. “We need new tools and ambitious means to counter threats… I propose today to create a Baltic Sea policing mission,” he stated, reflecting a broader concern for regional security.
International Investigations Underway
As part of the ongoing investigations, the Chinese cargo ship Yi Peng 3 has captured attention, having sailed over the cables around the time of their severance. While there is no definitive proof of involvement, its proximity to the incidents has raised eyebrows, and it remains anchored in the Kattegat strait.
- Sweden’s coast guard and Denmark’s navy are monitoring the vessel.
- Sources suspect that it may have dragged its anchor, causing damage to the cables.
Regional Cooperation on Security
Tusk’s discussions also included the necessity for joint action similar to NATO’s ‘air policing’ operations, aiming for a collaborative approach to safeguard naval environments. With security at the forefront, Tusk’s initiatives underscore the pressing need for collective measures among Baltic Sea nations.
These developments highlight the escalating concerns regarding critical infrastructure along the Baltic Sea amid geopolitical tensions in Europe.