Serenity has come to an end. - Sweden bolsters its defense on Gotland against Russia.
☑️ Joining NATO, Sweden effectively claims ownership of Gotland, making the entirety of the Baltic Sea under the protection of the defense alliance. In a study by the Atlantic Council, the tactical value of the island states was highlighted: "Having the capability to rapidly defend and retaliate against an unprovoked Russian air assault on Gotland is vital for preserving the Baltic Sea's tranquility."
Commanding the Gotland Battalion, Colonel Magnus Frykvall shares his concerns over the escalating tensions. He voiced similar worries just three months after the Russian attack on Ukraine: "In response to the current circumstances, we must increase our military readiness and presence on Gotland. This entails more soldiers and increased operational activities."
"Putin wants dominance over the Baltic Sea"
According to Major General Micael Byden (59), the head of the Swedish Armed Forces, the conflict in Ukraine brought about significant changes in European political dynamics. He expounded on this matter in a conversation with "RND": "To safeguard Gotland, we had to thoroughly rearm."
Byden recalls, "There were moments when we significantly reduced Sweden's military presence on Gotland, with only a volunteer militia left to defend the island."
He underlines, "Those peaceful days are long gone."
"By maintaining a permanent military presence and deploying temporary reinforcements if required, we ensure the security of the island. Possessing Gotland means having control of the Baltic Sea," says Byden.
Simply put: "If Putin were to invade Gotland, he could pose a threat to NATO members from the sea, thus shattering the peace and stability in the Nordic and Baltic regions."
The Swedish Armed Forces chief remains firm in his belief: "Putin has his sights set on Gotland. His objective is to attain control over the Baltic Sea. (...) The Russians are closely monitoring strategic entry and exit points in the Baltic Sea."
For Putin, the Baltic Sea holds substantial importance, much akin to how Sweden values its safety and navigability. If Russia seized control and closed off the Baltic Sea, it would have severe consequences.
Byden is convinced "that Putin has both Gotland and its strategic value in his sights. Putin's aim is to gain dominance over the Baltic Sea."
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Source: symclub.org