Russian Vessel Suspected of Territorial Violation in Gulf of Finland
- The Finnish defense ministry raised concerns over a Russian Navy vessel suspected of entering Finland's territorial waters in the Gulf of Finland.
- This incident could heighten tensions in an already strained relationship between Russia and Finland, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical issues.
- Authorities are investigating the situation to determine the vessel's intentions and potential implications.
HELSINKI – The Finnish defense ministry reported on Friday that a Russian vessel is under investigation for a suspected territorial violation in Finland’s marine area within the Gulf of Finland. The incident occurred in the eastern part of the Gulf on Friday afternoon, prompting an inquiry by the Finnish Border Guard. Specific details regarding the violation have not been disclosed by the ministry. According to the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat, border officials identified the vessel as the Russian Navy’s hydrographic survey ship, the Mikhail Kazansky. This ship is known for conducting underwater topography and repair work. Reports indicate that the vessel entered Finnish territorial waters south of Hamina without authorization shortly after noon on Friday, remaining in the area for approximately seven minutes. This incident marks a continuation of tensions in the region, as Finland has previously reported territorial violations by Russian entities. The last confirmed violation occurred on June 10, when four Russian state-operated aircraft entered Finnish airspace near the southern towns of Loviisa and Porvoo. The Finnish government is taking the matter seriously, and the investigation by the Border Guard is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to assess any potential implications for national security.