Russia has escalated its actions in this area and NATO must take action, says Sweden's Minister of Defense Pål Jonson (M), who is participating in the group's meeting in connection with the NATO Defense Ministers' meeting in Brussels.
It is a way for NATO to secure peace and avoid being exposed to nuclear blackmail, he says of the group's statement.
It's unusual
It is unusual for the group to make a statement, despite recurring meetings. The last time was 17 years ago, according to TT. But increased Russian aggression, statements and the development of Russian nuclear weapons - for example, a new missile that is believed to be capable of carrying nuclear warheads - mean that NATO must respond to maintain nuclear deterrence.
All NATO countries except France participate in the group.
The group emphasizes that strategic nuclear weapons are the most important part of NATO's security and deterrence. They agree to continue strengthening capabilities by modernizing weapons, reviewing planning, and adapting capabilities to today's security situation.
NATO countries say they are determined to share the responsibilities, risks and burdens associated with nuclear deterrence by investing in the resources, capabilities and forces required and by demonstrating unity and determination.
Not on Swedish soil
We must work to keep both conventional and nuclear deterrence credible. That is also why we participate in the NPG, and why we participate in exercises with staff officers and Gripen.
Then we have no need for nuclear weapons on Swedish soil, but the Americans know that, says Pål Jonson.
