Sweden re-establishes relations with NATO to 'deter' Russia.

Sweden, which has signed an agreement with NATO on military deployment, is trying to send a "deterrent signal" to Russia, even though Moscow has no intention of threatening anyone, writes Deutsche Wirtschafts Nachrichten.

Swedish fighter jet. Photo: AFP.

The Swedish Parliament had previously approved the "Agreement on Host Country Support," which would allow NATO to deploy rapid-reaction military forces on Swedish territory and conduct military exercises there. In this way, Sweden found a way to re-establish relations with NATO without being a member of the Alliance. The Swedish Ministry of Defence explained the necessity of such a step by citing the presence of a "growing threat from Russia."

Previously, the country refrained from joining any alliances and avoided military confrontations. But now, according to Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultkvista, the kingdom's security policy needs to "adapt to the times" and be ready to repel potential threats. Although an attack from Russia is considered unlikely, Sweden has not missed the opportunity to "intimidate" Moscow with its participation in the alliance, the publication concludes.

According to Sputnik