As fears of a potential conflict with Russia grow, Sweden is distributing leaflets among its citizens with clear instructions on preparing for war and stocking up on essentials like food and water. Neighbouring Finland has also launched a new website focused on preparedness, while Norway also distributed similar pamphlets advising citizens on how to survive independently for a week in case of war or other emergencies.
‘The security situation is serious’
Both Sweden and Finland, known for their long-standing neutrality, shifted their policies and joined NATO after the Ukraine war began. “The security situation is serious, and we all need to strengthen our resilience to face various crises and ultimately war,” said Mikael Frisell, director of Sweden’s Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), which is overseeing the distribution of the leaflets.
This development follows a decision by the Biden government to allow Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike within Russian territory. In response to the announcement, Donald Trump Jr., the son of the President-elect, wrote on social media, “The military industrial complex seems to want to make sure they get World War 3 going before my father has a chance to create peace and save lives.”
‘If Crisis or War Comes’
Since the Russia-Ukraine war began, Swedish officials have urged citizens to prepare both mentally and practically for the possibility of war. The newly updated booklet, titled ‘If Crisis or War Comes,’ provides instructions on handling various emergencies, including military conflicts, natural disasters, cyberattacks, and terrorism.
This booklet has been issued only five times since World War II, with the last version distributed in 2018. “The global security situation increases the risks that nuclear weapons could be used. In the event of an attack with nuclear, biological or chemical weapons, take cover in the same way as in an air attack,” the booklet states, according to Daily Mail.
The updated version also includes a strong message of resilience: “We will never give up if Sweden is attacked by another country. All information to the effect that resistance is to cease is false.”
Over the next two weeks, 5.2 million copies of the 32-page booklet, featuring illustrations, will be delivered to Swedish households. It is available in Swedish and English in print, with digital versions offered in multiple languages, including Arabic, Farsi, and Ukrainian, to ensure accessibility for all residents.
(With inputs from agencies)