We have seen that almost anything can be used as a weapon against us. We cannot accept that, says EU Commissioner Henna Virkkunen when she presents the plan together with her colleagues Andrius Kubilius and Magnus Brunner at a press conference in Helsinki.
It is noteworthy that this happens at the same time as yet another cable break is discovered.
The plan includes everything from mapping the cables and increased surveillance using underwater sensors and drones, to building up a repair fleet and a stockpile of spare parts.
Although the plan applies to the entire EU, the Commission also wants to establish a special regional center for security around the Baltic Sea.
Furthermore, a preventive "cable diplomacy" is proposed, as well as more measures against the "shadow fleet" of ships that Russia is accused of using to circumvent sanctions related to the war in Ukraine. International maritime law will be thoroughly examined to see what can be done against the ships, their owners, and cargo.
This is a threat to our security and our environment, says Virkkunen in Helsinki.
