**Sweden Warns of Growing Threat from Russia**
The Swedish security service, Sapo, has issued a warning about the growing threat to Sweden from Russia. In its annual report, Sapo said that Russia’s aggressive attitude towards the West is the greatest threat to Sweden.
**Nato Membership Strengthens Security, But Also Increases Russian Activity**
Sweden joined Nato last year as a way to strengthen its security against potential threats from Russia. However, this move has also led to increased Russian intelligence activity in Sweden. Sapo said that Russia’s primary goal is to undermine cohesion between Nato members and counter Western support for Ukraine.
**Serious Security Situation in Sweden**
Sapo described the security situation in Sweden as serious and potentially getting worse. The agency warned of foreign powers operating in more threatening ways, using hybrid warfare, and resorting to violent extremism. Sapo’s head, Charlotte von Essen, said that there is a tangible risk that the security situation could deteriorate further.
**Other Security Threats**
Sapo also identified Iran and China as posing significant security threats to Sweden. The agency warned of cyber-attacks, technology theft, and tracking foreign dissidents living in Sweden. Terrorism remains a high threat, with violent Islamist extremism and right-wing terrorism being prominent concerns.
**Warning of Destabilizing Forces**
Ms von Essen urged Swedes to be vigilant about widespread anti-state narratives and conspiracy theories that can act as destabilizing forces. She emphasized the importance of not normalizing the new security situation.
**Recent Incidents**
Sapo mentioned suspicious incidents involving infrastructure, including undersea cables and gas pipelines damaged in suspected attacks since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The latest breach was reported near Gotland, Sweden’s largest island.