Undersea Infrastructure Under Scrutiny in Estonia as Finland Detains Russian Vessel in Cable Sabotage Probe

After damage to the EstLink 2 cable, Estonia is increasing its efforts to protect critical underwater infrastructure with NATO support.

Following another instance of cable damage in the Gulf of Finland, Estonia has announced plans to enhance oversight of underwater infrastructure, seeking cooperation with NATO allies. Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal made the announcement after the government convened an emergency meeting on December 26 to address the issue.

The meeting, held at 16:00, included Michal, Interior Minister Lauri Laenemets, and Minister of Justice and Digital Technology Liisa Pacosta. During a subsequent press conference, Michal emphasized the urgency of protecting critical infrastructure both at sea and on land.

“The most important thing we have to do now is strengthen the monitoring and protection of critical infrastructure, primarily through the navy, while also asking for help from our allies,” Michal said. He admitted, however, that monitoring every square meter of the seabed is unrealistic, stressing the importance of being able to quickly repair damaged infrastructure.

Estonia views Finland as a key partner in this effort. Michal highlighted Finland’s swift action in detaining a vessel suspected of involvement in the incident. “This is the first time among such incidents that the suspected vessel has been detained, and the first steps have already been taken to investigate,” he said. The detained vessel reportedly belongs to the “shadow fleet,” and Michal suggested Russia may be displeased with Estonia’s proactive measures.

Interior Minister Lauri Laenemets added that repeated incidents of infrastructure damage suggest systemic targeting. “In the current security environment, it does not matter whether it is an armed or hybrid attack. It is about actions directed against someone with a specific purpose,” Laenemets said.

As Estonia prepares to disconnect from the Russian energy system in February, Laenemets called for heightened vigilance over both underwater and land-based energy infrastructure.

Michal also called for updates to EU and NATO maritime laws to better address the sabotage of critical infrastructure. “Countries should be able to better protect their critical infrastructure, more effectively stop suspicious ships, and identify suspects more quickly,” he said.

The EstLink 2 power cable, connecting Estonia and Finland, has been a key focus after its emergency disconnection. Estonia has underscored the need for active monitoring, enhanced defense, and international cooperation to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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