Sweden seizes vessel over Baltic Sea cable damage

Swedish authorities have seized a ship, identified as the Malta-registered oil tanker Vezhen, suspected of damaging an undersea fiber optic cable connecting Latvia to the Swedish island of Gotland. A criminal investigation into potential sabotage has been launched, following disruptions in data transmission detected by the cable's owner, the Latvian State Radio and Television Center (LVRTC). The incident, which occurred within Sweden's economic zone, has prompted Latvia to collaborate with NATO and other Baltic nations for a thorough investigation. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina confirmed her government is working closely with Sweden, with both nations pledging important resources for the inquiry. There are growing concerns over a series of similar incidents in the region, with some blaming Russia for orchestrating acts of sabotage against critical infrastructure. The cable damage is being assessed, and alternative transmission routes are in place to maintain internet services while repair efforts are organized.