Underwater investigations into the Balticconnector gas pipeline emergency in the Gulf of Finland are ongoing, with officials from the Finnish Navy providing updates on the situation. The latest statements emphasize that the underwater research in the Gulf of Finland is continuing as authorities work to understand what happened and assess any potential hazards to the marine environment and regional energy infrastructure. [Source: Finnish Navy press service]
The investigation is being supported by specialized ships and maritime units. The Halli, a vessel tasked with oil recovery operations, is assisting the Central Criminal Police and the Border Guard as part of the coordinated effort to examine the incident and gather evidence. In addition, the mine countermeasure ship Purunpää has shifted its position to aid Estonian authorities in the broader investigation, highlighting cross-border cooperation in this critical matter. [Attribution: official statements from coast guard and naval command]
Earlier reports described a container ship near the Estonia-Finland Baltic gas pipeline route at the time of the incident on October 8. The vessel, identified as Newnew Polar Bear and registered under the flag of Hong Kong on behalf of a Chinese owner, was noted to be in proximity to the leakage site. Concurrently, Estonian media noted the presence of several other ships in the vicinity, including the Russian ore carrier SGV Flot, complicating the navigational and investigative picture. According to coverage by Postimees, Newnew Polar Bear appeared to be closer to the location of the gas pipeline leak. [Cited: maritime traffic updates and local reporting]
Meanwhile, the international conversation around the incident included comments from Russian officials, with President Vladimir Putin responding to inquiries about possible Russian participation in the emergency affecting the Finnish gas pipeline. The remarks have contributed to ongoing media scrutiny and public interest, reinforcing the need for transparent, evidence-based reporting as investigators continue their work. [Context from regional political reporting and official communications]