Sweden Seeks 'Yi Peng 3' Over Baltic Cable Damage Linking Finland, Germany, Sweden, Lithuania

Nov 26, 2024, 09:20 AM

Swedish and Finnish authorities have identified a Chinese ship, the 'Yi Peng 3', anchored northeast of Denmark, as potentially linked to recent incidents of damage to two undersea data cables in the Baltic Sea connecting Finland to Germany and Sweden to Lithuania. The 'Yi Peng 3', which has a Russian captain, was in the vicinity of the cables when they were damaged and is currently being held off the Danish coast by Danish Navy vessels. Sweden is requesting that the ship move into Swedish waters to facilitate a preliminary investigation, including examining the vessel and possibly interrogating its crew. The incidents occurred within Sweden's Exclusive Economic Zone and have raised security concerns over possible sabotage. Denmark and other countries are reportedly in negotiations with China regarding the ship. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning commented that China is maintaining smooth communication through diplomatic channels. The events have heightened tensions in the region, with several government ships monitoring the 'Yi Peng 3'.