Swedish military seeks to take over Russian-owned estate near naval base

Sweden's armed forces have petitioned the government to seize a Russian-owned property situated near a naval base, citing security concerns. The military requested the confiscation of a beach plot adjacent to the Muskö naval base in Stockholm's archipelago, citing the threat posed by Russian drones and the ownership circumstances of the land.

Swedish sources indicate that a businessman with suspected ties to the Russian government has been constructing a luxurious residence on Muskö Island, although his wife, who holds dual Russian and Swedish citizenship, is the registered owner of the property. Two years ago, Sweden abandoned its policy of non-alignment with military forces and joined NATO due to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

In its statement, the military explained that the location possesses unique attributes for enhancing the defense of the Muskö Naval Base, especially against drone incursions. The growing significance of Russian drone warfare has transformed Sweden's security landscape, the military added. Public broadcaster SVT reported that the property has been a persistent issue for the armed forces.

Defence Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the necessity for the country to ensure no risks of anyone gaining visibility into the site or gaining any tactical advantage, as reported by Sweden's TV4.

The armed forces' statement quoted Chief of the Defence Staff Carl-Johan Edström, stating that Sweden is currently confronting the most severe security situation since the conclusion of World War Two. It remains uncertain whether the Russian businessman is presently residing in Sweden. His wife is believed to have owned the property since 2017.