Sweden in State of Neither War Nor Peace

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has declared that Sweden is in a state of 'neither war nor peace', highlighting the country's vulnerability to hybrid attacks and suspected sabotage, particularly in the Baltic Sea. He announced Sweden's commitment to contribute armed forces, including warships and a surveillance aircraft, to NATO efforts for monitoring critical infrastructure following recent incidents of damaged underwater cables, which experts believe are linked to Russian aggression. Kristersson emphasized that true peace requires freedom and the absence of serious conflicts, stating that hostile intentions cannot be ruled out amidst ongoing tensions. The situation is exacerbated by the geopolitical climate since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with Sweden and its neighbors facing threats that extend beyond traditional military actions to include cyber warfare and disinformation campaigns. He noted that while Sweden does not jump to conclusions regarding sabotage claims, the security situation necessitates vigilance and a long-term defense strategy. Additionally, Magdalena Andersson, leader of the Social Democratic Party, warned of the new, uncertain global landscape and its implications for Sweden's security.