“A Swedish step towards the abyss”. That is the title of the text that Russia’s ambassador to Sweden, Viktor Tatarintsev, published on Tuesday – and which is seen as one in a series of Russian threats against Sweden since the NATO process began. But TV4 Nyheternas Terese Cristiansson downplays the consequences of the letter, whose intention is to sow seeds of concern among Swedes. 1. Why does the ambassador write like this? Russia’s ambassador Viktor Tatarintsev has written a long text on the embassy’s website. It is full of speculation and is based on rhetoric that portrays Russia as a victim of the ongoing situation. He also writes that Sweden is heading into the abyss and will become “a legitimate target for Russia’s retaliatory measures” if the country joins NATO. Undoubtedly, it is a way of trying to influence Sweden and perhaps above all the Swedes who are doubtful about NATO membership. Simply a form of attempted influence where he sows the seeds of concern. 2. Why is he doing it now? After both Turkey and Hungary agreed to approve or initiate the approval of Finland’s NATO application, the pressure on Sweden is also increasing. That the ambassador’s letter is published now is of course no coincidence, but rather a form of call to the Swedish people to protest before it is too late. It can also be interpreted as an underlying threat to all NATO members, perhaps especially those who send heavy weapons to support Ukraine against the Russian war of aggression. 3. What consequences can it have? This should be seen as one in a series of attempts at pressure from Russia. They have a strong propaganda apparatus that works in parts of Russia, and perhaps even on some Russian citizens around the world. But many are also aware that this type of play is precisely part of Russian propaganda. Possibly, it could lead to a series of diplomatic contacts being made and shorter reactions from the public. But it will likely have no major consequences.
t4-general
That’s why Russia is threatening us – again
