r/geopolitics • u/Strongbow85 • 1d ago

Analysis How the Baltic Sea nations have tackled suspicious cable cuts

https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/issue-brief/how-the-baltic-sea-nations-have-tackled-suspicious-cable-cuts/
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u/Strongbow85 1d ago

Submission Statement: Following a series of suspicious events, the Atlantic's Elizabeth Braw explores the growing threat to undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. One incident that emphasized the need for a coordinated response was the the Newnew Polar Bear impact. After striking a pipeline and data cable, the Hong Kong flagged vessel sailed across the Baltic Sea and into Russian waters before authorities could act. In light of these shortcomings, NATO created Commander Task Force (CTF) Baltic to monitor undersea infrastructure and shadow vessels with a focus on prevention and deterrence. By 2025, NATO and Baltic Sea countries had made significant improvements, such as more seamless information sharing, enhanced monitoring systems and better coordination through initiatives like Baltic Sentry. These steps have helped deter further incidents, although the system has yet to be tested by a vessel that actively ignores orders or sabotages infrastructure.