Finnish Court Acquits Crew of Russian-Linked Tanker in Baltic Sea Cable Damage Case

A Finnish court ruled in favor of the crew of a Russian-linked tanker, dismissing charges of damaging Baltic Sea cables. The court cited a lack of proof of intent and commented on the complications international maritime law introduced to the trial.

The case, linked to geopolitical tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, had placed NATO forces in the region on high alert. The December 25 incident involved the tanker dragging an anchor across the seabed, severing cables. Finland accused the crew of negligence, but the court emphasized that jurisdiction issues impeded prosecution.

With potential tens of millions in damages, NATO launched the "Baltic Sentry" mission to bolster undersea security. Despite setbacks, the trial signals a judicial attempt to address suspected sabotage of critical infrastructure, albeit fraught with challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)