On January 4th, a damaged telecom cable beneath the Baltic Sea prompted Latvian investigators to board a ship linked to the incident. The situation sparked heightened vigilance in the region, following multiple disruptions to critical infrastructure since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, leading NATO to bolster its military presence.
On November 9, three Vietnamese seafarers were arrested by the Busan Coast Guard for attempting to forcibly enter the captain’s cabin of a Panamanian-flagged cargo ship at Gamcheon Port. The violent confrontation, involving an axe, raised serious concerns about safety and underlying crew issues, prompting investigations into their motivations.
On July 28, 2025, Greenpeace India and civil society groups demanded urgent action regarding environmental devastation caused by the abandoned MSC ELSA 3 off Kerala’s coast. Their white paper highlights extensive contamination of nurdles and oil pollution, labeling this a “multidimensional environmental and human crisis” necessitating swift clean-up and compensation for affected communities.
In 2025, over 2,280 seafarers were abandoned on 222 vessels, reflecting a 30% rise from the previous year. The International Transport Workers’ Federation reported $13.1 million in unpaid wages, highlighting severe human rights violations. The Gulf states and Europe face criticism for their inaction, as nearly 75% of abandoned vessels are registered under Flags of Convenience.
The Kerala High Court has expressed serious concerns about repeated maritime incidents along the state’s coast, urging government action against shipping companies. Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar highlighted the financial burden on taxpayers and emphasized the need for prompt measures to prevent dangerous precedents. The court also suggested involving the National Investigation Agency.
In a recent UN Security Council address, Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the urgent need for maritime security, citing a 47.5% rise in piracy incidents in early 2025. He proposed a three-pronged strategy focused on international law, addressing root causes, and fostering global partnerships to secure vital shipping lanes for future generations.
European wind developers are urging governments to protect the industry, facing challenges in competitiveness and security. The EU aims for wind to contribute 35% of electricity by 2035, leading countries to expand renewable energy, particularly offshore wind. Developers want at least 100GW worth of CfDs auctioned over ten years to address issues.
