Sweden alerts on rising Russian espionage amid NATO tensions

Swedish security services Säpo once again drew attention to the risk posed by the actions of Russian agents in NATO countries. This threat has been noted since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. However, according to the Swedes, incidents suggesting interference by Russian services in Sweden are intensifying.

"For many years we have been talking about the illegal activities of foreign forces, but now we notice a difference and a trend of increased risk-taking by the Russians. This is a change that 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.

Military facilities and companies engaged in military production require protection above all. The association representing Swedish defence 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 instance, 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 the fighting Ukraine from the beginning, and by 2026, the Swedes will provide the Kyiv army with military aid worth around 9 billion Canadian 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"