Sweden Started Restoring Its Total Defense System After Russia’s Annexation of Crimea, Expert Says
Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the outbreak of war in eastern Ukraine prompted Sweden to begin rebuilding its total defense system, a process officially launched in 2015. This was stated by Swedish expert Magnus Hjort in an interview with Ukrinform.
“We began restoring our total defense system in 2015 following a decision by the government and parliament. Naturally, this was a direct response to developments in Ukraine — Russia’s aggression, the annexation of Crimea, and the conflict in Donbas. We finally understood that the threat was real and needed to be taken seriously. In this regard, Sweden reacted earlier than some other countries,” Hjort said.
At the same time, he noted that Sweden should have recognized the danger much sooner, particularly after Russia’s war against Georgia in 2008.
“We failed to understand that this was only the beginning of Russia’s aggressive policy and its attempt to rebuild an empire. We should have realized that other countries could also become targets,” the expert added.
Hjort stressed that one of Sweden’s key priorities is strengthening the education system at every level — from preschool education to universities and academic institutions.
“It is essential to protect academic freedom and support research in order to build a stable and cohesive society. People must feel that they belong, that their voices matter, and that they are being heard. We also need a strong social welfare system that functions effectively in peacetime and remains capable during crises,” he said.
According to Hjort, Sweden is simultaneously reinforcing its military, civil defense, and psychological defense systems, which form part of the country’s broader resilience strategy.
He also highlighted the role of media literacy in strengthening national security.
“Media literacy is an important element of this effort. We are working on multiple levels to strengthen resilience, knowledge, and critical thinking so that every citizen understands that Sweden and Europe are facing a new and much more difficult reality,” Hjort concluded.
Read also: Russian Companies Massively Moving Capital Abroad Amid Growing Economic Fears — Ukrainian Intelligence
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- May, 25
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26 of May 2026
