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PM Tusk calls for stronger Baltic security amid rising threats from Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’

14.01.2025 10:00
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, speaking ahead of Tuesday's summit in Helsinki, emphasized the need to strengthen security in the Baltic Sea region, proposing joint patrols by NATO and national forces.
Helsinki, Finland, January 14, 2025. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (right) and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (fifth from right) join other leaders for a group photo at the Presidential Palace. The NATO summit addresses recent critical infrastructure damage and aims to bolster regional maritime security, with Poland considering joining the J
Helsinki, Finland, January 14, 2025. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (right) and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (fifth from right) join other leaders for a group photo at the Presidential Palace. The NATO summit addresses recent critical infrastructure damage and aims to bolster regional maritime security, with Poland considering joining the JPAP/Piotr Nowak

At the NATO Baltic States Conference in Helsinki, leaders will discuss regional security, threats posed by Russia’s "shadow fleet," and Poland's proposal to enhance control in the Baltic Sea in response to acts of sabotage and environmental risks.

During a morning press briefing, Prime Minister Donald Tusk recalled that on November 27 in Stockholm, Poland proposed strengthening Baltic Sea monitoring in response to incidents involving the so-called "shadow fleet"—ships transporting Russian oil in violation of sanctions.

"This absolutely requires enhanced security in the Baltic," he stated.

The Prime Minister noted that these vessels often pose environmental risks and are also linked to acts of sabotage, including attacks on underwater infrastructure affecting Finland and Estonia.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that effective deterrence requires a readiness for decisive actions, such as detaining ships and crews involved in sabotage: “We will effectively discourage such acts when it is clear that we are prepared for radical, tough decisions.”

The politician underscored the importance of a firm response to attacks in the Baltic Sea: “This is not just about politics but also business, and we must deter those profiting from it,” added the head of the Polish government.

Source: PAP/X/@PremierRP_en

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