Increasing military drills being carried out by Russia near its eastern European neighbours could be part of a strategy that will open the door for a Russian offensive on the Baltic states, writes Martin Hurt, deputy director at Estonia’s International Centre for Defence and Security. (Newsweek)

Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist said Sweden will deploy troops on the strategic Baltic Sea island of Gotland and will start military drills in that area after Russia increased activities and influence over Baltic countries. (Full article here)

Lithuania decided to restore compulsory military service because of increasing Russian tensions (here).

Russia’s ambassador to Denmark has said Moscow could send nuclear missiles against ships from the Scandinavian NATO country if it joins the alliance’s missile defense system. (Times of Israel)