The UK, along with 9 European countries, creates multinational naval forces to deter Russia

The head of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom, Admiral Gwyn Jenkins, announced the creation of joint naval forces with nine European countries to deter future Russian threats from the 'open maritime border' to the north, reports bb.lv, citing the authoritative publication The Guardian.

In his speech, Admiral Jenkins noted that the 10 participating countries of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) have signed a statement of intent to create 'multinational naval forces' that will act as a 'complement to NATO.'

The alliance will include the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, all five countries of Northern Europe (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland), and the Baltic states (Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia). Canada is also considering joining.

Jenkins noted that despite the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, where the Strait of Hormuz remains closed due to the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, 'Russia remains the most serious threat to our security.'

'In the last two years, the number of Russian incursions into our waters has increased by almost a third,' said the commander of the British fleet, adding that in his opinion, the UK has an 'open maritime border with Russia to the north.'

The new naval forces 'will be commanded, if necessary, from the British military headquarters in Northwood.' They will be 'created for immediate engagement if necessary, having real capabilities, real military plans, and real integration,' Jenkins noted.

According to bb.lv, European countries are strengthening naval coordination amid rising tensions and Russian activity in northern waters. The establishment of joint forces demonstrates a desire to act more quickly and flexibly, complementing NATO's capabilities. In the long term, this could lead to a significant increase in military presence in the region and tighter control over maritime border security.