NATO recently announced plans to strengthen surveillance in the region by deploying frigates, patrol aircraft, and drones. This decision follows reports of vessels allegedly damaging power and communication cables with their anchors, raising suspicions of deliberate sabotage.
Pevkur highlighted the need for additional security measures, such as installing sensors to monitor anchor movements and constructing protective barriers around vulnerable cables. However, implementing these measures would be costly, potentially leading to higher consumer prices or additional taxes.
As an alternative, Pevkur proposed a fee on ships transiting the Baltic Sea to fund these security efforts. He compared the concept to airport landing fees, suggesting that vessels passing through the Danish straits could be charged a similar fee as an insurance measure against cable damage.
The proposal is still in the discussion phase, with affected countries needing to reach a consensus. The Baltic Sea, a vital maritime corridor bordered by eight NATO countries and Russia, sees approximately 4,000 ships crossing daily, making it particularly vulnerable to disruptions.
The issue has gained urgency after Swedish authorities recently detained a Maltese-flagged vessel suspected of damaging a cable between Latvia and Sweden. This incident is one of four similar cases in the past year, affecting power and telecommunications infrastructure between Estonia, Finland, and neighboring nations.
While investigations are ongoing, Pevkur suggested that some of the vessels involved may be part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” despite flying different national flags. Moscow has denied any involvement, dismissing the allegations as unsubstantiated.
As discussions continue, the maritime industry will be watching closely to see how potential new fees could impact operations in one of the world's busiest shipping routes.
