In its annual assessment for 2025–2026, the Swedish Security Service (Säpo) notes a significant worsening of threats from Russia. According to the agency, Russian intelligence agencies are acting increasingly aggressively and are willing to take increased risks.
“We can conclude that Russia has become more risk-averse than before,” Säpo’s report states. “This development is characterized by more offensive Russian behavior combined with covert influence activities.”
According to Säpo, Russian agents and their accomplices have been tasked with mapping and documenting sites critical to Sweden’s defense and security. These include so-called “protected assets» military bases, critical infrastructure, energy systems, and other strategically important locations.
“We know that Russia has instructed its agents to map and document secure sites in Sweden,” a Säpo spokesperson noted in comments to the media.
The agency emphasizes that there have been no confirmed cases of physical sabotage of critical infrastructure in the country. However, the agency has already investigated hundreds of suspicious incidents over the past year, including attempted destructive cyberattacks linked to Russia.
Säpo assesses that Russia remains the greatest threat to Sweden’s national security. Russian intelligence gathering, influence, and possible sabotage activities are expected to intensify in the coming years, especially given Sweden’s support for Ukraine and its NATO membership.
“The security situation in Sweden is serious and could deteriorate further,” Säpo warns, calling on the public and authorities to maintain heightened vigilance.