On the deck of a Finnish patrol ship, I witnessed armed individuals descending from a helicopter and launching an assault on the vessel. These masked guards swiftly took over the bridge, simulating a drill conducted by the Finnish Border Guard to enhance readiness against potential threats, particularly from Russia, along the extensive 830-mile border on NATO’s eastern side. Additionally, the Finnish Border Guard actively engages with suspicious vessels in the Gulf of Finland, including those linked to damaging undersea cables.
During a two-day tour of Finland and Norway, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper observed a demonstration by camouflaged personnel showcasing how they would seize control of a suspect ship. The visit highlighted the proximity of Russia as they boarded the Turva, an offshore patrol vessel in Helsinki overlooking the Gulf of Finland, extending towards St Petersburg in the Baltic Sea.
The strategic positioning of Finland near Russia necessitates vigilance against Putin’s disruptive strategies and hybrid warfare. Cooper’s visit underscored the looming threat posed by the Russian shadow fleet to Britain, emphasizing the importance of addressing the network of elusive oil tankers supporting Putin’s activities in Ukraine.
Contemplating the legality of military interventions on these vessels, the UK recently assisted US special forces in a daring operation targeting a tanker with Russian ties. Cooper’s diplomatic trip coincided with escalating tensions over the Arctic region, where climate change-induced warming seas have intensified geopolitical competition for new shipping routes and resources previously hidden under ice.
Britain aims to play a pivotal role in shaping Arctic security alongside NATO allies, amidst concerns over potential disruptions fueled by the unpredictable stance of the US President. The evolving scenario, including Trump’s recent statements regarding Greenland’s annexation, has thrust Arctic security to the forefront of global discussions, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to secure the region.
Lizzy Buchan, the Political Editor at the Mirror, leads a dedicated team covering political developments in Westminster and around the UK, focusing on delivering impactful news to Mirror readers. With a background in political journalism since 2017, she brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at The Independent, Press Association, The Scotsman, Edinburgh Evening News, and Cambridge News.