Swedish authorities have determined that the damage sustained by an underwater data cable in the Baltic Sea was not due to sabotage but rather weather and navigational failures from the Maltese-flagged ship named 'Vezhen.' Following an investigation, the ship was released, confirming the Bulgarian shipping company's claims blaming adverse conditions. This incident is part of a broader concern regarding underwater cable security amid increased incidents since the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, prompting NATO to enhance its regional surveillance and protection efforts.
It has been determined that a combination of weather conditions and inadequate equipment and seamanship contributed to the cable damage.
The release of the 'Vezhen' comes just days after Norwegian authorities released a Russian-crewed cargo ship which had also been suspected of involvement.
Incidents involving damaged underwater cables in the Baltic Sea have increased since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
NATO has stepped up patrols in the region, deploying warships, fighter planes, satellites and drones as part of operation to protect vital infrastructure.
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