Oslo: Norway’s Defense Minister, Bjorn Arild Gram, has underscored the imperative for Norway to remain vigilant and prepared in the face of potential Russian aggression, extending beyond the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to reports from Norwegian news outlet VG on February 5, as cited by New Voice of Ukraine, Gram emphasized the erosion of democratic structures within Russia, citing the suppression of dissent and the lack of press freedoms and civil society as signs of an authoritarian regime.
Expressing concerns over the treatment of Russian citizens critical of the government, Gram noted that dissenters often face imprisonment or are deployed to Ukraine, where they encounter grave consequences. This crackdown on opposition underscores the broader risks associated with Russia’s political climate.
“The absence of opposition, press freedom, and civil society in Russia paints a grim picture of an increasingly authoritarian regime”, Gram stated, emphasizing that the threat from Russia is anticipated to persist beyond the conclusion of the Ukrainian conflict, posing a long-term security challenge for Norway and its allies.Gram also addressed geopolitical shifts in the region, particularly the potential NATO memberships of Finland and Sweden. He suggested that these developments could prompt strategic reassessments by Russia, impacting its military activities in Norway’s vicinity.
In response, Gram called for a proactive approach to national defense, advocating for increased investment in Norway’s military capabilities to counter the enduring threat posed by Russia. This stance reflects a consensus among Norwegian defense and political leadership on the necessity for heightened readiness amidst a volatile global security landscape.
