Russia's policy threatens the entire security system in Europe. This was stated by Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist, speaking at the national conference "People and Defense," writes UNN, citing Göteborgs-Posten.
"The entire European security system is threatened because of Russia's actions," the publication quotes the politician.
The minister stressed that all countries have the right to their own sovereignty in accordance with UN principles. In turn, Russia defies international law.
According to him, Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, must feel a special responsibility for compliance with UN principles.
Sweden must be able to cooperate with NATO, and the EU is the most important platform of Swedish security policy, he continued.
"Our strategy is to build security together with others. Today, we are a respected partner that helps provide security. What we do is our own choice and is based on the decisions of the Swedish parliament. That is the way it has to stay. There is no room for compromise on this issue," Hultqvist said.
Earlier, Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Anderson reacted to Russia's proposed so-called security guarantees in Europe. According to her, Sweden decides its own policy and security policy and with whom to cooperate.
We note that on December 17, Russia sent the U.S. and NATO proposals on security in Eastern Europe, which, in its opinion, are necessary to ease tensions around Ukraine.
Moscow's demands include a ban on Ukraine joining NATO, the Kremlin's veto on the deployment of NATO military forces in former Soviet republics, and the cessation of military exercises near its borders.
Josep Borrel, head of European Union diplomacy, considers the conditions under which the so-called security guarantees demanded by Russia would be discussed without Europe to be absurd. Borrel also stated that any discussion on Ukraine within the framework of the security dialogue with Russia needs Kiev's presence at the negotiating table.
At the same time, Kiev expressed its desire to participate in the consultations.
