Russia believes that Sweden's actions contribute to escalating tensions in the region and create new threats to the safety of economic activities and maritime transport.
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| Russia affirmed many times to warn about the risks arising from NATO's military exploitation of the territory of new member countries in Northern Europe. (Source: NOVA) |
On April 5, the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized Sweden's plan to establish a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) base on Gotland island, considering it a provocative and transformative act. The formerly peaceful Baltic Sea became a political arena.
The ministry's statement read: "The Russian side has repeatedly warned about the risks arising from NATO's military exploitation of the territory of new member countries in Northern Europe", especially with the intention to consolidate strengthen Sweden's position in Gotland.
According to a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, this island is of strategic importance in defense against the so-called "threat from Russia".
Stockholm restored its military presence on the island of Gotland in 2015. Before officially joining NATO, Sweden conducted exercises on the island, simulating repelling an armed attack.
The Ministry said that these actions contribute to escalating tensions in the region and create new threats to the safety of economic activities and maritime transport.
Responding to this development, Moscow warned of reestablishing the Leningrad Military District as a measure to prevent threats in the North.
Also according to the above ministry, future decisions to ensure Russia's security will depend on the development of the situation.
Currently, Stockholm and NATO have not commented on Moscow's reaction.
