A Purposeful Mistake in the Baltic?

A Chinese container ship has done damage to the Balticonnector, a pipeline between Finland and Estonia, and other “critical infrastructure” in the Baltic Sea, according to Politico.eu:

An investigation by Finnish authorities identified as the main suspect Chinese container ship Newnew Polar Bear, which is believed to have dragged its anchor across the Baltic Sea seabed, cutting through the cables and gas lines. The anchor — which weighs 6,000 kilograms — was retrieved a few meters from the site of the damage.

Chiappa & Ngendakumana. “‘Everything indicates’ Chinese ship damaged Baltic pipeline on purpose, Finland says.” December 1, 2023.

A Taiwan Motive? Estonia has recently allowed Taiwan to open a representative office, which falls short of full diplomatic relations, but any acknowledgement or engagement of Taiwan angers a jealous China. Finland has also increased engagement with Taiwan, sending a parliamentary delegation there earlier this year.

The story has a Russian wrinkle too. The ship’s company registration was changed to a Russian company for its return voyage to China, according to Radio Free Europe. The article quotes “certified futurist”, Dr Sari Arho Havrén:

“Whether this incident was intentional or not, it’s something that both Russia and China can benefit from,” said Arho Havren. “Even if the scale may be small, it once again diverts NATO’s attention and resources away from other global focal points.”

Reid Standish. “Hunt For Answers Continues Over Chinese Ship’s Suspected Role In Damaging Baltic Pipeline”. Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. November 2, 2023.

There have been numerous incidents involving Chinese ships and airplanes engaged in aggressive actions in the South China Sea, including a recent incident where a Chinese ship pounded Australian divers with sonar. But, this new “mistake” shows China’s willingness to use its commercial navy aggressively anywhere in the world.