Sweden Deploys Troops to Latvia to Counter Russia and Urges Citizens to Prepare for War
Sweden plans to send its troops to Latvia in 2025 as part of an international force under Canadian command to deter a possible Russian attack. This was announced by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson during a speech at the National Defence Conference, the Dagens Nyheter newspaper reports.
"Today I can say that the government is committed to Sweden participating with a reduced battalion in the Canadian-led force in Latvia," the Swedish prime minister said.
Kristersson noted that he would not waste time waiting for the final ratification of Sweden's membership in NATO and warned of Russia's attempts to "destabilise the whole of Europe" through threats, disinformation and cyberattacks. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of continued support for Ukraine from Sweden, the EU and the US.
The Swedish Prime Minister noted Sweden's unique military capabilities in the air and underwater, as well as its intelligence capabilities and experienced soldiers. According to him, Sweden is ready to contribute to the defence of NATO countries, including the provision of ground troops to protect the Baltic States.
Kristersson noted that Ukraine has already shown that "solidarity and the will to defend" are the most important resources in a military conflict. With this in mind, he announced the introduction of civilian military service in Sweden from 19 January. The reintroduction of civilian conscription means that Swedish citizens can be involved in socially important activities, such as healthcare and rescue services, in the event of an escalating state of emergency or war.
Earlier, Swedish Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Mikael Büden called on citizens to be prepared for the possibility of war.
"Civil defence is not just a theoretical exercise. Awareness must be translated into practical actions. There could be a war in Sweden too. My main goal is not to appeal to your fear, but rather to your awareness. I am trying to open a door that for many Swedes may have been closed for life. Doors that greet us with the question: who are you if war breaks out?" said Carl-Oskar Bohlin.
He recommended that officials ensure the functioning of shelters and adopt an emergency water and food supply plan.
It should be noted that Sweden has been neutral in armed conflicts for more than 200 years, including two world wars. However, Russia's attack on Ukraine forced the country to start its movement towards the NATO military and political alliance. Currently, Sweden is still waiting for Turkey and Hungary to approve its NATO membership application, which it submitted along with Finland in May 2022.