Russian Attacks on Undersea Cables Threaten Global Internet Access – Understand the Situation

Alleged Russian attacks on undersea cables may be putting global internet access at risk, according to a report by The Telegraph.

The information comes from an open letter issued by telecom operators such as Vodafone and Orange, who urged UK authorities to classify undersea cables as critical infrastructure, which would ensure greater protection and security.

“The consequences of damage to undersea cables go far beyond Europe, potentially affecting global internet and energy infrastructure, international communications, financial transactions, and critical services worldwide.”

Currently, about 500 undersea cables are responsible for approximately 95% of the world’s data traffic. Because they lie on the ocean floor, monitoring them is more difficult.

The request came after alleged attacks on cables that were attributed to Russia. Around 11 cables were damaged in the Baltic Sea, and similar incidents were recorded involving cables in the North Sea. The Russian spy ship Yantar is the main suspect in mapping the underwater infrastructure in the region.

“I want President Putin to hear this message: we are watching, we know what you are doing, and we will not hesitate to take strong action to protect this country,” said UK Defence Secretary John Healey in January.

British authorities are closely monitoring the ship’s movements, but there are also suspicions that China may be involved in the attacks.

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