Finnish Authorities Investigate Tanker Over Baltic Cable Damage

The oil tanker Eagle S, suspected of damaging undersea power and data cables, remains detained as Finland conducts inspections and investigations.

The Eagle S, a tanker linked to Russia's 'shadow fleet,' is suspected of damaging Finland's Estlink 2 power cable and multiple data cables on December 25 by dragging its anchor across the seabed.
Finnish authorities have detained the ship, initiated a detailed inspection, and imposed travel bans on seven crew members as part of an ongoing investigation into potential sabotage.
Underwater inspections revealed anchor drag marks extending for dozens of kilometers, and the tanker was found to be missing an anchor, further implicating it in the incident.
The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency is evaluating the ship's compliance with international safety standards, with findings potentially leading to its extended detention if significant issues are identified.
The incident has heightened concerns about the security of critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, prompting NATO to increase its military presence in the region and the EU to enhance measures to protect undersea cables.