Norway warns Putin is close to a move that would target London

Norway's defense minister has issued a stark warning about Russia's growing military presence in the Arctic, suggesting Moscow could aim to control a vital maritime passage known as the "Bear Gap." This strategic corridor, situated between mainland Norway and the Svalbard archipelago, connects the Barents Sea to the Norwegian Sea and is crucial for Russian naval access to the Atlantic.

Defense Minister Tore Sandvik stated that if Russia gains control of the northern part of Scandinavia and the Bear Gap, it would pose a direct threat to the United Kingdom. He emphasized that such control would enable Russia to deploy and effectively utilize advanced hypersonic missiles against NATO members, including London, Norway, and Denmark. Sandvik compared the passage's significance to the historical GIUK gap, a key choke point for monitoring Soviet submarine movements toward the Atlantic.

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If Putin succeeds in taking control of the northern part of Scandinavia and the Bear Gap area, it represents a direct threat to the United Kingdom.

The "Bear Gap" is a particularly sensitive area because, while Norway holds full sovereignty over Svalbard, a 1920 international treaty prohibits the militarization of the archipelago or the establishment of permanent military bases there. This treaty limits Norway's ability to maintain a consistent military presence in the region.

While direct military action against Svalbard is considered unlikely by experts, the possibility of hybrid operations, including political and economic pressure, is growing. This concern is amplified by increasing uncertainty surrounding the long-term commitment of the United States to European security. In response, Norway is strengthening its defense capabilities and seeking deeper cooperation with France, including discussions on nuclear deterrence.

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We see what kind of weapon systems Russia is developing. If it controlled the Bear Gap, it could use hypersonic missiles against NATO, London, Norway, and Denmark.