Sweden is raising its military budget and reintroducing the draft amid Russia fears

I can't help but feel that this is a little paranoid. Russia's millitary, industrial, and political power have been crumbing for years. The major resources Russia has left, in terms of global influence that is, are oil production, cooperation with anti-western nations, and, of course, it's nuclear weapons. Russia's invasion of the Crimea is concerning, but it doesn't suggest Sweden is under threat. Unlike Ukraine, Sweden is a highly developed, wealthy nation that is a member state of the EU and highly cooperative with NATO. Furthermore, Sweden has virtually no oil production. Russia would have far more to lose attacking Sweden than it would to gain. It wouldn't significant boost Russia's geopolitical power, it would just start a war with the west. I really don't like the idea of drafting people over such empty threats.

These kinds of concerns with Russia have led to bad policies lately in my opinion. Much of the problems in the Middle East can be attributed to western intervention meant to topple Russian allies. There is little doubt the CIA has actually funded terrorism in order to further this endevor. In Europe, the same worries are being brought up to further the EU's power and reduce the ability of it's smaller member states to act atonomously. This is the exact excuse that was given when the EU wanted it's own army so I'm imedietely skeptical when Sweden is using it.

/r/worldnews Thread Link - businessinsider.com