UK builds new alliance to deter Russia amid 'most dangerous period'
Photo: UK and allies prepare for a large-scale conflict (Getty Images)
The UK and Northern European countries have agreed to establish a naval alliance to deter Russia, primarily targeting its submarine fleet, according to the Financial Times.
The agreement is intended to be formalized within the framework of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), led by the UK.
The key area of cooperation between London and its allies will be countering Russian submarines in the North Atlantic, the Arctic, and the Baltic Sea.
Journalists note that participating countries plan to move from declarative agreements to concrete joint actions. This primarily involves enhancing coordination among naval, air, and ground forces.
As FT points out, the strategic role of the North Atlantic and the Arctic for NATO is increasing. This is due both to the emergence of new maritime routes caused by melting glaciers and to the location of vital underwater communication cables in the region.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, Chief of the Defence Staff of the UK, issued a statement on this matter.
He acknowledged that Britain lags behind other European countries in understanding the threat posed by Russia. In this context, he announced further actions to counter Russian submarines in the North Atlantic.
“We’re talking about targeted assassinations, we’re talking about sabotage, we’re talking about cyber attacks. These are very real, real things [by] the Russian state we have proof of in Europe and to some extent in the UK," emphasized Knighton, commenting on Russia's crimes.
He also drew attention to the fact that Moscow's "appetite" for provocations has "clearly grown" and that the term "hybrid activity" no longer reflects the seriousness of its actions.
“This is the most dangerous period I’ve known in my adult life . . . That threat — principally from Russia, but more broadly globally — is rising," stated Knighton.
UK is returning to Cold War strategies and preparing for a large-scale conflict.
London learned of a secret Russian operation in the Atlantic and warned dictator Vladimir Putin.
