Russia Steps Up Security Measures to Protect Ports and Seabed Infrastructure
Russia’s Security Council has recently voiced concerns over increasing threats to the country’s ports and seabed infrastructure, prompting calls for heightened protective measures. This development follows a series of incidents in the Baltic region, including damage to undersea cables and alleged attacks against tankers involved in the Russian oil trade.
According to reports from Russian media outlets, the Security Council has recommended an escalation in monitoring activities aimed at countries capable of posing threats to underwater and critical port infrastructure. Grigory Molchanov, a spokesperson for the council, highlighted the heightened presence of NATO forces in the Baltic region and referenced the use of unmanned attack boats by Ukraine in the Black Sea, which have reportedly been intercepted by the Russian Navy on multiple occasions.
Molchanov expressed concerns over NATO’s military build-up in the region, suggesting that maritime transport, major oil terminals, and railway connections could be potential targets. In response to these perceived threats, NATO and Baltic nations have recently increased patrols in the area following reports of undersea cable damage.
While specific actions have not been disclosed publicly, Reuters claims to have seen a letter from the Russian Transport Ministry outlining forthcoming measures. Shipowners are reportedly being informed that all vessels arriving at Russian ports will undergo thorough inspections, including hull checks for possible explosive devices conducted by divers.
Recent incidents involving Greek-owned tankers transporting Russian oil have raised suspicions of foul play. Italian and Greek authorities are currently investigating damage sustained by two tankers, with one vessel experiencing damage during offloading in Italy and another incident occurring near Turkey earlier this year. The possibility of terrorism or sabotage has been raised, leading to speculation about potential targeting of tankers involved in the Russian oil trade.
Furthermore, a Turkish-owned tanker was reportedly damaged by an explosion in its engine room while docked at Ust-Luga, a key Russian energy terminal on the Baltic coast. While initial reports suggested an accidental cause, local authorities have hinted at the possibility of a deliberate attack on the vessel using limpet mines.
As Russia ramps up security measures to safeguard its maritime assets, the international community will be closely monitoring developments in the region amidst rising tensions and security concerns.