The Swedish government has begun distributing five million pamphlets to citizens, advising them to prepare for the possibility of war amid growing concerns of a potential conflict between Russia and NATO.
The booklet, titled If Crisis or War Comes, was issued by the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) and provides guidance on how to prepare for emergencies, including war, natural disasters, cyberattacks, and terrorism.
Its updated introduction states, “An insecure world requires preparedness. The military threat to Sweden has increased, and we must prepare for the worst—an armed attack.”
A particularly alarming section warns of the potential use of nuclear weapons, with the pamphlet stating, “The global security situation increases the risks that nuclear weapons could be used. In the event of an attack with nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons, take cover as you would during an air attack.”
The pamphlet advises citizens to seek shelter, noting that radiation levels will decrease significantly after a couple of days. It encourages people to take refuge in basements or subways if no other options are available and to listen for warnings on the radio.
An additional message, moved up in the revised pamphlet, asserts: “If Sweden is attacked by another country, we will never give up. Any information suggesting resistance should cease is false.”
This move comes as tensions between Russia and Ukraine’s western allies continue to escalate. The Biden administration recently approved the use of long-range missiles supplied to Ukraine, allowing Kyiv to strike targets within Russia.
