Shortly before Sweden’s possible accession to NATO, the Swedish secret service Säpo warned of a threat to its territorial security by Russia, especially in the Arctic. Säpo pointed out that both Russia and China “carried out security-threatening activities in the northernmost part of Sweden,” according to the secret service’s annual report published on Wednesday. “Russian interests in northern Sweden mainly concern Swedish military capabilities.”
According to the report, Russian industrial espionage is also an increasing threat and Sweden is also seeing an increase in undercover agents from various countries.
Sweden’s security situation has deteriorated since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, says Säpo boss Charlotte von Essen. “Russia’s all-out war against Ukraine continues, the situation in the Middle East after Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7 is serious and in Sweden we have gone from an elevated to a high terror threat rating in the past year,” she said . reporters.
Traditionally non-aligned Sweden, together with neighboring country Finland, applied for NATO membership in May 2022 in response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Finland could join the military alliance in April 2023, while Sweden had to wait due to the blockades by Turkey and Hungary. Ankara gave the green light for Sweden’s accession at the end of January, and the Hungarian parliament will also vote on Monday.
According to Säpo, activities that threaten Swedish security are taking place “on a broad front” and “foreign powers are acting offensively”. As an example, the secret service cited the illegal acquisition of technology that could later be used in the Russian defense industry.
Säpo also underlined the threat posed by Chinese and Iranian intelligence activities. China poses an economic threat and is acquiring “Swedish innovations, technological know-how and advanced knowledge from industry and universities.” (sda/afp)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
