On February 2, 2025, authorities released the Norwegian ship Silver Dania, which had been initially suspected of damaging an underwater fiber optic cable connecting Latvia and Sweden's Gotland island. A thorough investigation revealed no evidence linking the vessel to the incident, according to Norwegian police.
The Tromsø Police District undertook multiple investigative steps after the cable's break was detected on January 25, 2025. Without any findings implicative of the Silver Dania, the police stated they saw no reason for the ship to remain docked at Tromsø port. "Tromsø police district has now conducted a number of investigative steps and secured what we see as necessary considering the request from Latvia. The investigation will continue, but we see no reason for the ship to remain in Tromsø any longer," said Ronny Jørgensen, attorney for the Tromsø police.
The Silver Dania, which is Russian-crewed, had been detained on January 26 after concerns emerged about its role during its route through the Baltic Sea. It had been transiting between the Russian ports of St. Petersburg and Murmansk when it was brought to Tromsø for inspection following requests from Latvian authorities. Upon extensive investigations, including reviewing the vessel's tracking data, authorities confirmed no irregularities or cables intentionally severed by the ship.
Tormod Fossmark, CEO of the SilverSea company, which owns the ship, firmly denied any involvement of his vessel. "We have no involvement in this whatsoever," Fossmark told the Associated Press. "We did not have any anchors out or do anything, so... our ship’s tracking data shows no irregularities. I hope to sail onward later today now the ship has been cleared." The cooperation shown by both the crew and the shipping company has been acknowledged by officials throughout the investigation process.
Compounding the situation are broader concerns surrounding the security of undersea networks. A multitude of undersea cable incidents have occurred recently, strengthening suspicions of potential sabotage. Notably, another cable, connecting Finland to Germany, was severed on November 18, 2024, raising alarms amid reports of increased Russian military activity around key undersea infrastructures.
Authorities have opened investigations not limited to the Silver Dania incident. Notably, another vessel, the Malta-flagged Vezhen, was previously detained under similar suspicions. While the Bulgarian owner accepted possible accidental involvement with regard to the cable's damage, he categorically dismissed any claims of deliberate sabotage. Investigators speculate the Vezhen might have accidentally caused the damage, showcasing the complexity of maritime incidents where intent can be difficult to establish.
The intrigue surrounding this investigation is heightened by attention to the fragile undersea network connecting Europe, especially as nations remain on alert for signs of hybrid attacks. The timely nature of these incidents adds to concerns over national security, affecting the relationship dynamics between Russia and neighboring countries.
Following the incident involving the Silver Dania, experts highlight the need for greater oversight and protection of undersea infrastructures due to increasing geopolitical tensions. With various cables damaged, and inquiries continuing, the maritime community and authorities maintain vigilance against future threats to these communication pathways.
This series of cable breaches reflects broader themes of sovereignty and security, particularly within the contentious Baltic Sea region. The involvement of multiple vessels and nations echoes the necessity for collaboration across borders. Observers and policymakers are immediately watching how nations respond to these provocative situations as they continue to develop.
While investigations continue, the release of Silver Dania indicates the complexity of establishing fault and the need for careful deliberation before claims of sabotage are made. The resolution of these inquiries may shape maritime strategies and approaches to future incidents, highlighting the fragility inherent to modern communications and the geopolitical sensitivities involved.