A recent report has highlighted Russia’s increasing naval activities, with attack submarines being deployed close to NATO territories. Since the invasion of Ukraine by Vladimir Putin in February 2022, Russian submarines have been spotted twice in the Irish Sea, causing growing concern.
Just last month, Putin’s forces sent a nuclear-powered submarine, warship, and other naval vessels to the Caribbean Sea for military drills. The Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), a non-profit organisation, stated that the Russian Navy boasts one of the largest submarine fleets globally, with an estimated total of 58 vessels.
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Before the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, it was uncommon for Russian submarines to venture towards the Irish Sea. Last March, NATO’s deputy secretary general Mircea Geoana expressed concern over Russian naval exercises near Ireland, highlighting the potential threat to undersea cables connecting Ireland to North America, the UK, and Europe.
In the northern hemisphere, approximately 75 percent of transatlantic cables pass through or near Irish waters, as noted by the Express. Four of these cables connect directly to Ireland while twelve link Ireland and Britain.
Geoana commented: “As an advanced knowledge-based economy, with thriving technology, pharmaceutical, biotech, and financial sectors, ensuring Ireland’s resilience will be critical in the years ahead. This is where, I believe, our partnership would be good to work.”
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Although not a NATO member, Ireland receives backing from the alliance when it comes to safeguarding its undersea cables whilst continuing to uphold its military neutrality position.
American officials are watching the movement of the Russian Navy in the Irish Sea, according to Bloomberg. Meanwhile, UK defence spokespeople are sticking to their usual practice of remaining silent on operational matters, stating categorically that they do not “comment on operations”.
* Original Article:
https://www.irishstar.com/news/us-news/world-war-iii-fears-explode-33181904.amp
