“This creates a strategic dilemma for Russia in that the Baltics are now a NATO lake, and nine countries surrounding the Baltics are also NATO members.
“The idea that Russia would do any overt action and any sort of invasion of Gotland is farcical. But what is possible is that they could take hybrid action in the region of Gotland and territorial encroachment into Finland and its islands.”
Major-General Chapman believes Russia does not have the capability at this time to launch such an offensive.
On why Putin could attempt to take the Swedish island, he added: “Sweden has taken its rearmament seriously, they are going to 2.5 percent of GDP and would like to see other NATO members do that.”
This comes after Sweden’s defense chief Micael Bydén warned on Thursday that Russia has “both eyes” on Gotland.
He said: “I’m sure that Putin even has both eyes on Gotland. Putin’s goal is to gain control of the Baltic Sea.”
“If Russia takes control and seals off the Baltic Sea, it would have an enormous impact on our lives — in Sweden and all other countries bordering the Baltic Sea. We can’t allow that.
“The Baltic Sea must not become Putin’s playground where he terrifies NATO members.”