The Russian Embassy in Norway strongly criticized the visit of the world’s largest warship to Oslo. The Russians described the arrival of the American aircraft carrier as an “illogical and harmful” demonstration of force.
On Wednesday morning, the world’s largest warship, the USS Gerald R. Ford, entered the port of Oslo. The American aircraft carrier is on its maiden voyage and Norway is the first destination on its map.
“During the stay, several military exercises are planned in cooperation with the land forces, navy, aviation and special forces of the Ministry of National Defense” – writes “VG”.
The visit of the American giant is an incredible event for Norwegians.
“It is a guarantee of our security through NATO, not just a sign of close cooperation and partnership,” Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasized in a recent interview with Norsk Rikskringkasting (NRK).
According to the minister, it is extremely important for deterring enemies that Norway’s allies increase their presence on their territory – especially now that the war in Ukraine is raging.
“The United States has sent a clear signal that they have great capabilities and want to show off them,” said Tor Ivar Strømmen, who studies naval strategy and the theory of naval power at the Norwegian Naval Academy, in an interview with “VG”.
“There are no problems in the north that require a military solution, no issues that require outside intervention,” Russian embassy spokesman Timur Chekanov wrote in an e-mail to the Norwegian news agency (NTB). “Given Oslo’s admission that Russia poses no immediate military threat to Norway, such a show of force seems illogical and harmful,” the spokesman said firmly.
Named after the 38th President of the United States, the aircraft carrier is 333 m long and 76 m high. It is the largest warship ever built. On board, in addition to more than 4,500 crew members (who, according to “VG”, even have their own hair salon, dental clinic, dispensary, shops and a Starbucks coffee shop) there are 90 planes and helicopters.