Russian And Chinese Suspected In Baltic Sea Cable Sabotage After Biden Escalates Conflict

Following President Biden’s authorization of long-range missiles for Ukraine, the severing of two critical undersea data cables in the Baltic Sea has raised alarms across Europe.

The cables, connecting Finland to Germany and Lithuania to Sweden, were cut under suspicious circumstances, and while no official culprit has been named, the timing of these incidents and Russia’s longstanding threats make them prime suspects. Additionally, evidence has emerged suggesting that a Chinese-flagged bulk carrier, the MV Yi Peng 3, was involved in dragging anchor to break the cables.

The attacks occurred shortly after Biden approved advanced missile systems for Ukraine to strike Russian soil. Moscow has consistently warned that any support for Ukraine, particularly attacks on Russian territory, would lead to serious retaliation, including potential nuclear escalation.

The severing of these vital communication cables may be a direct response to NATO’s increasing involvement in the conflict, signaling that Russia is willing to escalate tensions further using hybrid warfare tactics like sabotage.

The MV Yi Peng 3, which departed from a Russian port, was reportedly shadowed by Danish naval vessels as it tried to exit the Baltic Sea.

Investigators are looking into whether the vessel deliberately dragged anchor to damage the cables, similar to a previous incident in October 2023 when another Chinese-flagged ship was linked to the sabotage of the Balticconnector pipeline. While China denies involvement, the growing pattern of suspicious actions by Chinese vessels has raised significant concerns among European officials.

As the investigation into the cable cuts continues, NATO and European nations are increasingly worried about further attacks on critical infrastructure. With Russia’s nuclear doctrine now adjusted to allow for potential nuclear retaliation to attacks backed by nuclear powers like the U.S., the risk of escalation is more pressing than ever. The sabotage of these cables could mark a dangerous new phase in the conflict, one where both Russia and China work together to disrupt European security and undermine NATO’s support for Ukraine.

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