NATO Launches Baltic Sentry Mission to Protect Undersea Cables

The operation responds to suspected sabotage of critical infrastructure and rising tensions with Russia.

NATO's Baltic Sentry mission, launched on January 14, deploys ships, aircraft, and naval drones to safeguard undersea power and communication cables in the Baltic Sea.
The operation follows incidents of suspected sabotage, including damage to cables connecting Finland, Estonia, Germany, and Sweden, with Russia being a key suspect.
The UK has joined the mission, deploying P-8 Poseidon and RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft to enhance surveillance and counter potential threats to underwater infrastructure.
Russia has criticized NATO's actions, accusing the alliance of creating barriers to shipping and violating international law, while pledging to protect its interests in the region.
Experts warn that these incidents are part of Russia's hybrid warfare strategy, testing NATO's resilience without triggering direct military responses.