– Russia has attacked a neighboring country. They have violated international law, and not least international law, sier fChief of Defense Eirik Kristoffersen to NRK on Thursday night.
He states that even though there is now war in Europe, it will not have consequences for us here at home.
– For Norway, the threat picture remains unchanged. People here at home should feel safe. There is no indication that we are facing an increased threat in the north, he says Kristoffersen.
Increased preparedness
The Norwegian Armed Forces has been following developments in Ukraine closely for a long time. Kristoffersen says that they have increased preparedness as the situation has changed.
The Armed Forces reviews logistics and plans, and they secure themselves more against, among other things, cyber threats. Most of the measures that are implemented are not visible.
– In concrete terms, this means that we are getting ready to defend the country if necessary, and as part of the NATO alliance, says Kristoffersen.
Norwegian soldiers patrol the border with Russia near Korpfjell’s OP tower on Thursday. The Chief of Defense states that the threat picture in the north has not changed after the attack on Ukraine.
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He wants Norwegian citizens to remain calm and continue as before.
– Norway is a member of NATO, the strongest military alliance in history. Russia has no interest in challenging either Norway or other NATO countries.
Russia invited to Norway in March
NATO has stationed troops in several member states bordering Russia.
5000 NATO soldiers are also in Norway. Next month, Norway will hold the military exercise Cold Response. A total of 35,000 soldiers from 28 nations will participate.
On the guest list we find, among others, Russia. They are invited to participate in the exercise as observers.
Kristoffersen says that the attack on Ukraine has not changed the situation. The invitation to the Russians stands.
– We try to have such good contact with Russland as possible in the north. We are completely dependent on cooperation with them in connection with search and rescue, border control and what we have done ever since Crimea was annexed, says the Chief of Defense.
Many soldiers are already in place in Norway to prepare for the military exercise Cold Response. Russia has been invited as an observer.
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“Massive” sanctions
Thursday night passed US President Joe Biden to attack Vladimir Putin in a speech. The Americans are now introducing what are called “massive” sanctions against Russia.
EU leaders have said they will do the same.
Criticism of Russia has hailed from a number of states. Many are worried about how the conflict in Ukraine will develop.
– It is serious for Ukraine, for Europe and the world, says Kristoffersen.
