EU Proposes Another Option to Reduce Dependency on Russia: Financial Times

The European Union plans to lay an underwater internet cable across the Black Sea to enhance connectivity with Georgia and reduce dependence on routes that pass through the Russian Federation, reports the Financial Times, citing a document from the European Commission.

According to the publication, the cable, valued at €45 million and spanning 1,100 kilometers, will connect EU member states with the Caucasus via international waters of the Black Sea.

The document states that the project aims to diminish the "region's dependence on terrestrial fiber-optic communications that pass through Russian territory." The publication, quoting a source familiar with the proposal, noted that the EU and Georgia identified the necessity for such a cable in 2021; however, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has provided additional impetus for the project.

At the same time, questions regarding the feasibility and timeline for the project's implementation remain unanswered.