Suspicions of Russia's involvement in damaging the Estonian-Finnish gas pipeline and communication cables

Finnish and Estonian Defense Forces suspect Russia attacked the Balticconnector gas pipeline, between Finland and Estonia, after a leak was detected.

On Tuesday afternoon, Finnish President Sauli Niinistö said: "It is likely that the damage to both the gas pipeline and the data cable is caused by external activity. What specifically caused the damage is not yet known."

Finnish PM Petteri Orpo told the country's parliament that the gas pipeline is damaged in Finland's economic waters, while a related communications cable disruption likely took place in Estonia's exclusive economic zone. Orpo added that based on what the authorities know, the leak was not a result of normal use or a change in pressure.

This occurred in one of the deepest parts of the Gulf of Finland, where the sea depth ranges from 60 to 70 meters. Just a month ago, a Russian Navy research vessel with its transponder turned off was repeatedly observed in the area.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström offered their assistance in investigating the rupture of the gas pipeline and communication cables.

Spoke with President Sauli @niinisto on damage to undersea infrastructure between #Estonia & #Finland. #NATO is sharing information & stands ready to support Allies concerned. @TPKanslia @EstonianGovt

— Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) October 10, 2023