In response to the incident, European nations are enhancing security measures in the Baltic region, increasing military patrols and monitoring of undersea infrastructure.

The Russian embassy in Warsaw did not respond to requests for comment, and the Kremlin has denied involvement in underwater sabotage, suggesting that Western accusations aim to limit maritime oil exports.

Defense Minister Włodysław Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed that a reconnaissance flight helped deter the ship, and the Polish navy's ORP Heweliusz was dispatched for further investigation.

The targeted power cable, which transmits over 600 megawatts of electricity between Karlshamn in Sweden and Ustka in Poland, is vital for cross-border energy trade.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that covert Russian operations pose a direct security threat, underscoring the need to cut off resources supporting Russia's military actions.

A recent confrontation involving the Estonian Navy and another 'shadow fleet' tanker highlighted the escalating tensions, as the ship ignored orders, prompting a Russian military aircraft to violate Estonian airspace.

On May 21, 2025, Poland's military intervened after a Russian ship from the 'shadow fleet' conducted suspicious maneuvers near a critical undersea power cable linking Poland and Sweden.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that the sanctioned vessel was directed back to a Russian port following the military's intervention.

Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the increasing dangers in the Baltic Sea, particularly since Sweden and Finland joined NATO, which has heightened security concerns.

The 'shadow fleet' consists of Russian vessels operating under concealed ownership to evade international sanctions, particularly concerning oil transportation.

Since the onset of the Ukraine conflict, NATO has increased its military presence in the Baltic region due to multiple incidents involving damage to undersea cables and pipelines.

The swift action by the Polish military reflects the seriousness with which European countries are treating these maritime threats, particularly in light of previous incidents linked to the shadow fleet.