EU Targets Russian 'Shadow Fleet' After Baltic Cable Damage

The European Union is poised to impose sanctions on Russia's 'shadow fleet' following the damage to the Estlink-2 submarine power cable in the Baltic Sea. This cable, crucially connecting Finland and Estonia, was reportedly damaged by the Eagle S, a Russian ship suspected of being part of this clandestine fleet. Finnish authorities have detained the vessel, which was flying the flag of the Cook Islands, as they investigate the incident.

The damage has sparked significant concern across the region, as repairs could take up to seven months. This event is seen as part of a broader threat to Baltic infrastructure, following similar incidents like the 2022 data cable cuts and the sabotage of Nord Stream gas pipelines. Estonian leaders have labeled these acts as systemic threats, prompting emergency meetings and calls for enhanced monitoring and protection of critical infrastructures.

The EU's planned sanctions aim to curtail the operations of these 'ghost tankers', which evade Western sanctions and pose risks to security and the environment. The region braces for further incidents, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to safeguard vital infrastructure.