Norway responds to Russia’s claims of militarization in Svalbard
Illustrative photo: Norway responds to Russian claims of militarization of Svalbard (Getty Images)
Russia has accused Norway of militarizing Svalbard in violation of a multilateral treaty. Norwegian authorities have denied the claim, NRK reports.
Background
Earlier today, Russia’s Foreign Ministry claimed that Norway is violating the 2020 Svalbard Treaty, which designates the archipelago as a demilitarized zone.
The Russian Ministry noted that Svalbard is increasingly being drawn into Norway’s military-political planning, with the involvement of the US and NATO.
It is unclear what exactly caused such statements, but in recent days, some Norwegian politicians have called for an increased military presence on and around Svalbard.
Norway’s response
A spokesperson for Norway’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed that Svalbard is part of Norway and NATO.
"Norwegian authorities obviously act in accordance with the Svalbard Treaty," the statement said.
The Svalbard Treaty, signed on February 9, 1920, in Paris, grants Norway sovereignty over the archipelago while imposing restrictions on its use for certain military purposes.
Previously, we reported that the Norwegian government is considering building a fence on its border with Russia to address a potential influx of refugees from the Russian side.
