Sweden on alert: Rising threat from Russian agents in NATO nations
Swedish security services Säpo have once again drawn attention to the increasing risk posed by Russian agents' actions in NATO countries. This threat has been noted since Moscow invaded Ukraine. However, according to the Swedes, incidents suggesting interference by Russian services in Sweden are intensifying.
8:24 PM EDT, August 30, 2024
"For many years, we have been discussing the illegal activities of foreign forces, but now we notice a trend of increased Russian risk-taking. This change is something we take very seriously and are taking action to prevent," said Karl Melin, spokesperson for Säpo, to Swedish television SVT.
The services do not disclose specific actions. However, they openly inform entrepreneurs and society. They also loudly appeal for special attention and vigilance.
Swedish services warn: the threat from Russian saboteurs is real
Military facilities and companies engaged in military production require protection above all. The association representing Swedish defense industry representatives confirms that incidents that can be classified as attempts to gather sensitive data are frequent.
The problems include cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and black PR. For example, companies producing military equipment report attempts of network hacking.
False information about Swedish supplies to the Ukrainian army is also being spread. According to "Gazeta Wyborcza," Sweden, which is NATO's newest member, has been helping Ukraine from the beginning. By 2026, the Swedes will provide the Kyiv army with military aid worth around 7 billion dollars.
Swedish services also warn that Russia is recruiting members of Scandinavian criminal groups to help conduct sabotage actions. Säpo's spokesperson stated that this is a "new phenomenon." "Russia is willing to go much further in actions threatening security," he added.
Source: "Gazeta Wyborcza"
