Sweden must leave NATO - before Sweden is drawn into a major war

By: Ulf Gabrielsson, former fighter pilot in the Swedish Armed Forces and spokesperson for defence and security policy for Ambition Sweden (A).

Sweden is today closer to the frontline of war than we have ever been in modern times - not because we have to be, but because our politicians have chosen to put us there. Through our NATO membership, through Swedish arms factories in co-operation with Ukraine, and through unconditional support for US military strategy, we are making ourselves a legitimate target in a future escalation between great powers. It is high time to say: Sweden must leave NATO - for the sake of peace and our security.

Sweden builds weapons for war

We now have Swedish components in weapons that can reach Moscow. The Taurus cruise missile - made partly in Karlskoga - is openly discussed by Germany for delivery to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Europe plans to finance US deliveries of weapons such as the MQ-1C Gray Eagle and JASSM, with ranges that make them capable of reaching Moscow.

This is no longer in defence of Ukraine. It is about provoking Russia - threatening its nuclear deterrence and war-fighting capabilities. Attacks have already been carried out inside Russia: against airbases, bridges and even the strategic bomber programme. Missile defence warning systems have been attacked. How much more will it take before the line is crossed and people demand retaliation?

On the road to disaster

The US is now putting advanced long-range weapons in the hands of Ukraine's leadership. If they are used against Moscow, there is a very real risk that Russia will respond with hypersonic missiles - perhaps against military targets in Western Europe. Perhaps against Sweden. Saab Bofors in Karlskoga and Saab Aeronautics in Linköping could be among the first targets.

And our Defence Minister Pål Jonson, along with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, have been among the most aggressive voices across Europe. Who has given them the mandate to turn Sweden into a frontline state? When did the Swedish people's will to make our country a potential target of retaliation in a world war become a reality?

A bloody high stakes game

The war in Ukraine has already cost hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian men their lives - or their futures. Those not killed will carry the trauma for the rest of their lives. But Mr Jonson says: “They are paying in blood and we should be grateful for that. It is a deeply undignified way to talk about human life.

And while this is going on, we hear the same scaremongering that “Sweden is next”.

Time to call a halt

We must start speaking plainly. Sweden's entry into NATO was hasty, undemocratic and deeply risky. We must demand a referendum on our future - and whether our children should grow up in a country built on peace or in a war alliance that risks dragging the whole of Europe into a global conflict.

Sweden has become a warmongering state. It is remarkable that Sweden's defence minister and prime minister have become the most aggressive warmongers in Europe. What drives them? Do they want to impress their European and American colleagues? Or what is behind it? It is now high time that Sweden once again becomes a country that stands for peace and not war. Leave NATO - before it is too late.