Lithuania Completes Investigation into Cable Damage in the Baltic Sea

Lithuania has completed its investigation into the damage to cables in the Baltic Sea, according to a report by LRT citing a statement from the General Prosecutor's Office. The investigation was halted after it was established that Lithuania had not suffered any harm, as the cables were damaged on the seabed within Sweden's exclusive economic zone.

Prosecutors noted, "This conclusion was reached after determining the exact locations of the incident with precise geographical coordinates. This circumstance is crucial for assessing jurisdiction and the limits of responsibility." Thus, Lithuania bears no responsibility for the cable damage, as they do not fall within its territory.

Lithuanian prosecutors also added that similar investigations regarding damaged cables in the Baltic Sea are ongoing in Sweden and Finland. This indicates that the incident has raised concerns not only in Lithuania but also in neighboring countries that share interests in maritime security.

It is important to recall that in November of the previous year, two fiber optic cables were damaged. One of these cables connected Finland and Germany, while the other linked Sweden and Lithuania. The damage to the cables raised suspicions of possible sabotage, adding to the tension in the region.

In response to these events, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced the launch of the Baltic Sentry mission, aimed at enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. This decision underscores the seriousness of the situation and the necessity of ensuring security in a region where the interests of several countries may intersect.

Furthermore, at the end of 2024, Finland initiated a criminal investigation into the possible involvement of the so-called shadow fleet of the Russian Federation in the damage to an underwater power cable between Finland and Estonia, which occurred on December 25. This is another example of how maritime security is raising concerns among the Baltic and Northern European countries.

In January of this year, it was reported that an underwater fiber optic cable belonging to the state joint-stock company Latvian State Radio and Television Centre (LVRTC) had been damaged in the Baltic Sea. This incident highlights the importance of protecting critical infrastructure in a region where the security of maritime routes and communications is extremely vital.

Lithuania, Sweden, and Finland continue to monitor the situation and are taking measures to ensure the security of their maritime borders. In light of recent events, the countries in the region intend to strengthen cooperation in the field of security to prevent potential threats in the future.

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