The Finnish authorities are investigating a Chinese ship, the Newnew Polar Bear, in connection with the recent damage to the Balticconnector gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia. The damage, suspected to be sabotage, caused the pipeline to shut down earlier this month. Investigators have indicated that the ship’s movements matched the timing and location of the pipeline’s damage. This incident has made Finland dependent on liquefied natural gas imports for the upcoming winter season.
Key Points:
- The Balticconnector gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was damaged earlier in October, leading to suspicions of sabotage.
- Finnish investigators are focusing on the Newnew Polar Bear, a cargo ship now under Chinese ownership, due to its movements aligning with the pipeline’s damage timeline.
- The damage to the pipeline was reportedly caused by “an external mechanical force.” A heavy object found near the site is being examined for potential links to the sabotage.
- Besides the Newnew Polar Bear, another ship, Sevmorput, is under investigation, as it was also in the vicinity at the time of the incident.
- The damaged pipeline will require at least five months for repairs, causing Finland to rely entirely on liquefied natural gas imports this winter.
