Poland Checks For Explosives Near Baltic Sea Cable After Russian Ship Encounter

Poland is investigating a possible security threat after a Russian vessel from the so-called “shadow fleet” was seen sailing suspiciously close to an undersea power cable that connects Poland and Sweden.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed on Thursday that authorities are checking the area for any signs of explosive devices.

The cable, which has a capacity of 600 megawatts, runs between Karlshamn on the Swedish coast and Ustka in northern Poland.

It allows both countries to exchange electricity when it’s cheaper in one system than the other. The ship’s close approach to this key energy infrastructure immediately raised concerns.

Speaking to reporters during a meeting with Polish Navy commanders, Prime Minister Tusk stated that investigations are still underway and need to be handled with caution.

The Polish Navy’s hydrographic vessel ORP Heweliusz is currently at sea examining the site. Tusk stated that, as of now, there are no alarming signs, but the area continues to be monitored carefully.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that the situation was handled effectively and discreetly. Without escalating tensions or using unnecessary force, the Polish side was able to prevent any aggressive moves by the suspicious ship.

Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz shared additional information, stating that a Polish patrol aircraft was dispatched on Wednesday and managed to scare the Russian vessel away.

Soon after, ORP Heweliusz was sent to the location to conduct a detailed check.

The ship is believed to belong to Russia’s “shadow fleet”, a group of vessels that operate to bypass international sanctions by transporting oil, arms, and grain despite restrictions imposed due to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

After the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, NATO has significantly increased security around key undersea infrastructure in the area. Several power lines, telecom cables, and gas pipelines have either been damaged or threatened during this period.

When asked for a response, the Russian embassy in Warsaw declined to comment. In previous similar situations, Russian officials have denied any involvement in undersea sabotage, accusing Western countries of using such claims as an excuse to block Russia’s maritime oil shipments.

References: Reuters, thedailyguardian

Source: Maritime Shipping News