The Swedish government plans to strengthen the country’s defense and increase the defense budget to 2% of its GDP.
“Sweden’s defense capability must be greatly strengthened. The government increases the allocations to the defense to 2% of GDP.
“We must reach that goal as soon as possible, and we must find stable long-term and solidary financing,” Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson said at an urgent press conference on Thursday morning.
“More young people must prepare to serve within the military service,” she added.
The increase entails an annual cost of 108 billion Swedish kroner, against the current defense budget of around 66 billion, the news agency TT writes.
Security situation
Andersson says the security situation has worsened over time, especially with the Russian attack on Ukraine.
She noted that many people would be affected by the new defense initiative and that everyone should be willing to do their part.
“Here, I want to be clear. In the long run, more young people must prepare to go through military service and contribute to the military.”
Source: © NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews
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