Sweden steps up measures against the Russian shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea. Defense Minister Pål Jonson notes more aggressive behavior from the Russian Baltic Fleet.
Swedish authorities have recently boarded several vessels suspected of belonging to the Russian shadow fleet. Defense Minister Pål Jonson (M) says a change in behavior has been noted.
– We have noted a more aggressive behavior from the Russian Baltic Sea Fleet, says Pål Jonson.
The coast guard is simultaneously strengthening its armament. Vessels are being equipped with machine guns and personnel may in the future receive automatic carbines. KBV 002 with home port in Slite on Gotland was first and was shown in Visby harbor on Thursday.
Coast guard director general Lena Lindgren Schelin points to escalated threats. Minister for civil defense Carl-Oskar Bohlin (M) stresses the need to operate in a more difficult security environment.
