Norway government steps up security as Ukraine war escalates

0

THE Norway government has revealed that it plans to step up security in the country as the Ukrainian war escalates.

Norwegian Armed Forces have implemented new measures to increase “preparedness” as Russia’s assault on Ukraine continues.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced the news today ahead of the “new phase” of defence, which will start tomorrow November 1.

They have implemented new measures within the area of ​​logistics, communication security, and securing the Armed Forces’ own facilities.

The PM explained that he has no reason to believe that Russia would involve Norway or any other country directly in the warfare, but stressed that the Ukraine war makes it necessary for “all NATO countries to be more vigilant”.

He said: “Complex threats can affect us – both around the country, at sea, in the air, or online. It requires us to step up preparedness in our country.”

He continued: “This is about Ukraine’s right to independence and freedom. But also about the defense of absolutely central values ​​for all countries in Europe – and in the world, including Norway.

“We see clear signs that Russia wants to shift its attention from the battlefield. The regime has a clear desire to create discord and unrest in Western countries that support Ukraine’s fight for freedom.

“Therefore, we feel the ripple effects of this war even more in Europe and here at home.”

Part of the Armed Forces’ activity will be adjusted going forward, said the PM, while continuing to prioritise support for the civilian sector.

“We must plan for the situation to be prolonged. We have strengthened the Armed Forces, both through the extra allocation this spring and in the proposal for the national budget for next year,” he said.

“The intelligence service has received more funds, we sail and fly more in our local areas and we have strengthened our emergency stocks.

“However, the security situation does not mean that the Armed Forces must do more of everything, but that we must prioritise tasks.”