Russian "Shadow Fleet" Vessel Suspected of Sabotage in Baltic Sea Amid EstLink 2 Damage

The Eagle S, part of Russia's "shadow fleet," is under strong suspicion of being involved in sabotage activities in the Baltic Sea.

This comes amid growing concerns over the damage to the EstLink 2 underwater electricity cable, which connects the Finnish and Estonian power grids. While the damage has not caused a power grid collapse, it has highlighted the vulnerability of the Baltic region’s energy infrastructure.

Belarusian analyst Ihar Tyshkevich predicts further risks to energy stability, particularly with the potential for future damage to the NordBalt cable connecting Lithuania to Sweden. The Baltic States had planned to achieve energy independence from Russia by 2025, but disruptions in key cables could delay this goal.

Additionally, reports indicate a Hong Kong-flagged vessel, the Xin Xin Tiang, was near the EstLink 2 cable at the time of the damage, prompting investigations into a possible deliberate attack. There are also rumors that the Biden administration may soon sanction Russia’s shadow fleet in response to such activities, possibly before January 2025.