Russian-crewed ship cleared in Baltic Sea cable sabotage investigation

Following an investigation, Norway released the Silver Dania, a Russian-crewed vessel, due to a lack of evidence linking it to recent undersea cable damage in the Baltic Sea.

Norwegian authorities released the Russian-crewed ship after finding no evidence connecting it to damage of an undersea fiber optic cable between Latvia and Sweden.

The Norwegian-owned Silver Dania, operating between St. Petersburg and Murmansk, was detained Thursday night at the request of Latvian authorities following a court order.

Police stated the ship, escorted to Tromso, might have damaged a critical fiber optic cable belonging to Latvia’s state broadcaster, linking Latvia and Sweden’s Gotland island. They added that they “conducted a search, interviews, and evidence gathering on the ship.”

However, the police announced the Silver Dania’s release from Tromso on Friday evening. While the investigation continues, they stated “no evidence links the ship to the incident,” and the crew cooperated fully.

This cable incident is the latest in a series of Baltic Sea infrastructure damage events, fueling speculation about Russian involvement. Despite this, Western officials haven’t made direct accusations due to a lack of definitive proof.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed accusations of Russian involvement, stating, “It is quite absurd to continue to blame Russia for everything without any reason.” 

The Washington Post, citing Western intelligence, reported earlier this month that the damage likely resulted from maritime accidents involving poorly maintained ships and inexperienced crews rather than deliberate sabotage.

NATO initiated “Baltic Sentry,” a mission enhancing surveillance and protection of critical undersea infrastructure to address sabotage concerns.