Sweden, Poland move to limit Russia's influence in Baltic Sea region

Sweden and Poland have pledged to strengthen their cooperation in order to limit Russia's influence in the Baltic Sea region as the two countries’ prime ministers signed a strategic partnership agreement.

The agreement, which was signed by Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson and his Polish counterpart Donald Tusk in Harpsund, outlines a joint commitment to enhancing security in the region while curbing Russia's ability to act and cause harm, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

"We will take the lead in further strengthening cooperation to bolster security in the Baltic Sea region and take initiatives to further limit Russia's influence, scope of action, and ability to cause harm," the agreement states.

Both countries emphasized their dedication to protecting common security interests and enhancing bilateral defence cooperation, aiming for a more effective and comprehensive alliance.

The treaty also reaffirms the strong support by Sweden and Poland for Ukraine, particularly its territorial integrity, sovereignty, and right to self-defence. "We fully support Ukraine's right to choose its own security arrangements and to pursue Euro-Atlantic integration," the document reads.

"Together, we will ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support, including military equipment and funding, to recover and rebuild."

Describing Russia as "the most significant threat to Euro-Atlantic security in the foreseeable future," the agreement reflects both nations' commitment to countering Russian aggression. Additionally, the document highlights the collaborative effort by countries in the region—Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Norway, Poland, and Sweden—to invest directly in Ukraine's defence industry to help strengthen its military capabilities.

By Vafa Guliyeva