Sweden Urges China to Cooperate in Baltic Sea Cable Sabotage Investigation

Sweden has formally requested China’s cooperation in investigating the suspected sabotage of two submarine internet cables in the Baltic Sea. These incidents disrupted crucial communication links earlier this month, and vessel tracking data suggests the involvement of a Chinese bulk carrier.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson confirmed the request on Thursday, stating that the country seeks China’s assistance to clarify the events. Additionally, Sweden has asked for the Chinese vessel, currently anchored in international waters in the Kattegat Strait between Denmark and Sweden, to return to Swedish waters to aid the probe.
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The Cable Disruptions
The two severed cables—Arelion, linking Finland and Germany, and C-Lion 1, connecting Sweden and Lithuania—were cut within 24 hours on November 17 and 18. This disruption has raised concerns about potential sabotage, especially given the timing just weeks after U.S. warnings about possible Russian attacks on critical undersea infrastructure. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius noted that it is unlikely the damages were accidental.

Investigation and Chinese Ship Involvement
Swedish and Finnish authorities have launched preliminary investigations into the suspected sabotage. Tracking data from Kpler identified the Chinese bulk carrier Yi Pen 3 as being in the vicinity of the cut cables when the incidents occurred. The vessel had recently departed from the Russian port of Vistino and traversed several undersea infrastructures, including gas and oil pipelines, a power line, and a telecommunications cable under construction.

China's Response
When questioned about the vessel, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that he was “not aware of the situation” and assured that Chinese ships adhere to international laws and regulations.

Broader Implications
These incidents highlight the vulnerability of undersea communication and energy infrastructure. Authorities in Sweden and Finland are intensifying efforts to determine the cause and hold responsible parties accountable. The situation underscores growing geopolitical tensions and the need for international cooperation to secure critical infrastructure.

This investigation could become a significant test of diplomatic ties between Sweden and China, as well as broader international collaboration in safeguarding undersea assets.

Reference from:- https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/29/europe/sweden-china-baltic-sea-cable-intl/index.html