Sweden has called on China to assist in investigating the suspected sabotage of two vital undersea fibre-optic cables in the Baltic Sea. The damage disrupted connections between Finland, Germany, Sweden, and Lithuania, prompting heightened security concerns across the region.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson confirmed on Thursday that Sweden has formally requested China’s cooperation in clarifying events surrounding the incident. “We have sent an official request for collaboration and expect China to comply,” he stated during a press conference.

The Chinese vessel Yi Peng 3, present in the area at the time of the damage, has drawn particular scrutiny. The ship has remained anchored in the Kattegat Strait since November 19, under close monitoring by the Danish navy and other vessels. While Beijing denies involvement, speculation persists.

Investigators are examining claims that the cables were deliberately severed by an anchor dragged across the seabed. Unlike previous incidents, such as the Nord Stream pipeline explosions, no seismic activity was detected, lending credibility to this theory.

Swedish and Finnish authorities are treating the incidents as aggravated criminal damage and interference with communications. Samples from the damaged cables are undergoing analysis to determine the exact cause and potential perpetrators.

The Swedish prosecutor confirmed that both incidents occurred within Sweden’s economic zone. The Sweden-Lithuania cable was damaged on November 17, followed hours later by the Finland-Germany connection.

Speaking at a Nordic-Baltic summit, Kristersson described the Baltic Sea as a “high-risk zone” for sabotage. “We must be cautious and avoid premature accusations, but we are investigating thoroughly,” he said.

The incidents have heightened concerns about regional security and critical infrastructure vulnerabilities. With tensions rising, Sweden’s push for international cooperation underscores the urgency of addressing the risks in the Baltic Sea.