NATO seeks to prevent ‘security vacuum’ in the Arctic

Speaking to reporters during a visit to the Bardufoss base in northern Norway, where major military exercises are taking place, Stoltenberg stressed that “a security vacuum cannot be left in the Arctic. This situation could threaten NATO and increase the risk of misunderstandings.” “This vast northern continent is an area of ​​great importance to all the nations of the alliance,” said NATO Secretary General.

“Cold Response” – one of Norway’s largest exercises since the end of the Cold War – currently brings together about 30,000 troops from 25 NATO countries, in addition to Sweden and Sweden. Finland – 2 close partners of the alliance. Planned over a long period of time, the exercises aim to test countries’ ability to defend themselves in the event of an attack, in extreme cold and in a difficult environment.

According to the head of NATO, “Cold Response” is an important exercise, especially in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian military conflict. Stoltenberg also expressed regret that Russia had refused to send observers and never invited NATO to observe or monitor its military exercises.