Member state demands from NATO to ‘show muscle’
(MENAFN) Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has called on NATO to increase its presence in the Baltic Sea to prevent further disruptions and deter malicious activities, particularly following a series of incidents involving damaged undersea cables. Nauseda emphasized that both NATO and the European Union should take greater responsibility in monitoring the region and enhancing maritime capabilities.
Since October 2023, there have been 11 incidents involving damage to undersea cables, including a recent one reported by Latvia. Lithuanian officials suspect that the damage to a fiber-optic cable linking Lithuania and Sweden was caused by an external factor. Following Latvia's report, Sweden detained a vessel connected to the incident, while Norway briefly detained a Russian crewed ship before releasing it. Western intelligence sources suggest the damage could be due to maritime accidents rather than sabotage, pointing to poorly maintained ships and inexperienced crews.
Despite this, Nauseda insists that the Baltic Sea remains a high-security priority due to the ongoing threat from Russia. He stressed that the region cannot afford to be complacent, as Russia remains a persistent neighbor. NATO has already increased patrols in the Baltic in response to the damage, launching the Baltic Sentry operation in mid-January, which includes enhanced surveillance through naval drones, aircraft, and frigates.
NATO has also conducted major war drills in Estonia, including Pikne (‘Lightning’) exercises in December. Meanwhile, Russia has consistently denied any intention to attack NATO members but has warned of potential nuclear escalation in case of direct confrontation. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Grushko has expressed concerns about NATO's growing influence in the Baltic Sea, vowing to protect Russia's interests in the region.
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