In the midst of escalating tensions with Russia, Sweden’s military strategy has undergone a significant shift to prepare for a potential invasion. The focus is on the strategically located island of Gotland, where troops are conducting training exercises and preparing defenses to repel potential invaders.
Gotland, as NATO’s newest member, finds itself on the front lines of a shadow war in the Baltic Sea, where critical subsea cables are at risk. Civilian bomb shelters, originally built during the Cold War, are being readied for potential use as tensions continue to rise.
Journalist Sune Engel Rasmussen visited Gotland to witness firsthand the radical transformation taking place on the island. Training exercises, construction projects, and the impact on the local community are all explored in his report. The mayor of Gotland shares insights into the changes occurring on the island and how they are affecting residents.
One of the key concerns for Sweden and NATO is the protection of subsea cables in the Baltic Sea. These cables are crucial for communication and internet connectivity, making them a potential target for hostile forces. The defense of these cables is a top priority for military planners in the region.
The new defenses on Gotland have divided opinion among locals, with some welcoming the increased security measures and others expressing concerns about the impact on daily life. As tensions with Russia continue to simmer, the importance of preparedness and vigilance on the island of Gotland has never been greater.
Watch the video by The Wall Street Journal
Video “How NATO’s Most Strategic Island Trains for a Russian Invasion | WSJ” was uploaded on 03/03/2025 to Youtube Channel The Wall Street Journal