Sweden stepping up crisis preparedness, Ambassador in Cyprus says

Sweden’s Ambassador to Cyprus, Martin Hagström, has shed light on Sweden’s renewed efforts to bolster crisis preparedness among its citizens and reaffirmed the country’s steadfast support to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Replying to CNA questions, Ambassador Hagström explained that the distribution to 5.2 million Swedish households of the latest edition of Sweden’s crisis preparedness brochure, “In Case of Crisis or War,” began on 18 November. Available online since October, this marks the fifth iteration of the document, a tradition dating back to the Second World War when it was included in telephone directories, he added.

“The update, which has been in the works since March this year, was prompted by the worsening security situation since the last version was published in 2018, including of course the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine”, said the Ambassador.

He added that the purpose of the brochure was to increase the resilience and preparedness of the population, in case of war or other crises.

The brochure, according to the Ambassador, emphasizes the individual responsibility of Swedes in a crisis, encouraging citizens to ensure self-sufficiency for at least one week, particularly in essentials like food and water.

The Ambassador also commented on the latest developments concerning the war in Ukraine and noted Sweden’s commitment to aiding Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of providing military, humanitarian, and civil assistance.

“Since February 2022, Sweden has contributed about €5 billion to various military, humanitarian and civil initiatives that support Ukraine. The Swedish military support is given without territorial restrictions” he said.

When questioned about recent disruptions to undersea internet cables in the Baltic Sea, including the connection between Lithuania and Sweden, Ambassador Hagström refrained to comment on specifics, citing an ongoing police investigation.

However, he emphasized the critical importance of securing undersea infrastructure, a priority not just for Sweden but for regional and international partners.

“In general, the protection and resilience of critical undersea infrastructure is an important priority, that is addressed nationally and in the framework of both the EU and NATO”, he said.

Sweden became NATO’s member last March, giving up its neutrality, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

(Source: CNA)