- Norway 's defence minister, Tore Sandvik, warned that Russia 's potential control of the strategic Bear Gap in the Arctic could place London within missile range, posing a direct threat to the UK .
- The Bear Gap, a stretch of water between mainland Norway and Svalbard, is crucial for Russia's Northern Fleet to access the Atlantic from the Barents Sea, with the fleet possessing significant nuclear strike capabilities.
- Despite Norway's sovereignty over Svalbard, the 1920 Svalbard Treaty prevents its militarisation, leaving the archipelago without a permanent military presence and vulnerable to potential Russian hybrid warfare.
- In response to growing security concerns and Russia's rearmament, Norway is enhancing its defence cooperation, including a new agreement with France on nuclear deterrence, and has amended legislation regarding Russian nationals.
- Both Russia, which recently conducted large-scale nuclear exercises, and the UK, whose defence secretary stated Russia poses the greatest threat to Arctic security since the Cold War, are increasing their military activities and presence in the High North.
IN FULL
