Five Questions for Expert – Professor Kjell Engelbrekt from the Swedish Defence University

Kjell Engelbrekt, a distinguished professor of political science at the Swedish Defence University and author of numerous publications, answers five questions from the Kyiv Post editorial team. In his responses, he reveals the lessons Sweden has learned from the war in Ukraine, the reasons behind the country's decision to join NATO, and discusses the new realities on the battlefield as well as Sweden's stance towards Russia.

The first question addresses the lessons Sweden has learned from the Russian invasions of Ukraine in 2014 and 2022. Engelbrekt notes that prior to 2014, Sweden did not pay sufficient attention to the intentions of the Russian Federation. Although there were experts in the country monitoring the increase in defense spending and military reforms, this information remained confined to a limited circle of individuals.

Following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, public awareness of Russia's developments in the field of security and defense sharply increased. According to Engelbrekt, since then, knowledge about the threats posed by Russia has become more widespread. However, a true understanding of Russia's intentions only emerged in February 2022, when the majority of Swedes were shocked to find that Russia had launched a large-scale war, risking its reputation and economy. This was one of the factors that led Sweden to seek NATO membership.

The second question pertains to the change in Swedish society's attitude towards NATO after 2022. Engelbrekt emphasizes that, as a non-NATO member in February 2022, Sweden had a certain degree of freedom of action. The country was not obligated to consult with Brussels or Washington, allowing it to make swift political decisions regarding military support for Ukraine.

After Sweden officially joined NATO in 2024, no one restrained its actions. Most alliance countries were pleased that Sweden became part of the states supporting Ukraine. This reflects Sweden's growing role in international security and its commitments to its allies.

The context of this situation is also significant. The war in Ukraine has acted as a catalyst for many countries that were previously skeptical about NATO. Sweden, which has traditionally adhered to neutrality, ultimately realized that the security of the country and the region depends on collective defense. This has become an important lesson that Sweden has drawn from the ongoing conflict.

Thus, Engelbrekt's responses highlight not only the changes in Sweden's military policy but also a deeper understanding of the threats facing European countries. The war in Ukraine has served as a crucial lesson for the entire continent, and Sweden appears ready to adapt to the new security realities.