Finnish Authorities Charge Officers in Russia-Linked Cable Damage Incident

Finnish authorities announced charges against the captain and two senior officers of a vessel linked to Russia, suspected of causing damage to undersea cables between Finland and Estonia last year.

The charges, which include aggravated criminal mischief and aggravated interference with communications, were brought against the crew of the Eagle S oil tanker. Although the vessel is flagged in the Cook Islands, it is part of what is described as Russia's shadow fleet of fuel tankers.

The incident is perceived as part of larger sabotage efforts linked to Moscow against Europe. The damaged cables are critical for trade and energy security, highlighting the geopolitical tensions amidst Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)