Sweden has formally requested the Chinese bulk carrier Yi Peng 3 to return to its waters to assist in an investigation into the recent damage to undersea fiber-optic cables in the Baltic Sea. This incident, which disrupted vital communication links, has prompted Sweden, Germany, and Lithuania to launch criminal investigations. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson clarified that the request is not an accusation but an effort to uncover the facts surrounding the breaches.
The investigation centers on two cables that were damaged within a 24-hour period on November 17 and 18. One cable connects Finland to Germany, while the other links Sweden to Lithuania. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius publicly suggested sabotage, adding urgency to the investigations. Authorities have identified the Yi Peng 3, which departed from the Russian port of Ust-Luga on November 15, as a vessel of interest. An analysis of MarineTraffic data indicated that the ship’s coordinates matched the locations and times of the cable breaches.
Currently, the ship is anchored in international waters within Denmark’s exclusive economic zone and is under close observation by Danish military vessels. Sweden has urged the vessel to return to its waters to facilitate a deeper examination of the circumstances.
Sweden’s leadership emphasized its commitment to maintaining transparency. Prime Minister Kristersson noted that Swedish authorities have reached out to both the ship and Chinese officials to request cooperation. This request, according to Kristersson, aims to clarify the incident without making accusations or assumptions.
China’s foreign ministry confirmed open communication channels and expressed support for international collaboration to secure submarine cables. Spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated China’s adherence to international law and its willingness to cooperate with Sweden and other parties involved.
The cause of the damage is a matter of debate among intelligence agencies. U.S. Naval Intelligence has concluded that the incidents were probably accidental, whereas officials from other countries have raised the potential of sabotage. Experts note that although the majority of the 150–200 annual undersea cable breaches are accidental, the increasing geopolitical tensions in the Baltic region warrant detailed investigation.
Katja Bego, a senior researcher at Chatham House, highlighted the challenges in proving intent, even if the responsible party is identified. She emphasized the importance of investigating such incidents comprehensively, particularly given the sensitive nature of the region.
The Baltic Sea has experienced comparable incidents in the past. In 2023, Finnish authorities linked damage to a gas pipeline and telecommunications cables to a Chinese ship allegedly dragging its anchor. However, investigators did not clarify whether the damage was caused deliberately or by accident. Russia, frequently scrutinized in such matters, dismissed any allegations connecting it to the recent incidents as absurd.
The incidents underscore the vulnerability of undersea communication infrastructure in geopolitically tense areas. As international dependence on such networks grows, ensuring their security has become a critical issue. Investigations like this serve as a reminder of the fragile balance between transparency, accountability, and international cooperation.
Sweden’s request for Yi Peng 3 to return to its waters reflects its determination to lead a thorough inquiry. The findings could have significant implications, not only for the countries involved but also for the broader global dialogue on safeguarding critical infrastructure in international waters.
