Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson faced a tense moment on SVT's 'Agenda' when questioned about former security advisor Henrik Landerholm's trial. Kristersson refused to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings, emphasizing the functionality of the security council. The interview also touched on foreign policy disagreements within the government, highlighting potential conflicts over Israel's situation.
Ulf Kristersson's Tense Exchange on SVT's 'Agenda' Over Security Council Issues
Ulf Kristersson's Tense Exchange on SVT's 'Agenda' Over Security Council Issues
On Sunday evening, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson appeared on SVT's 'Agenda', hosted by Tomas Nordenskiöld, with a focus on foreign policy. The interview began with discussions on the war in Ukraine and Israel's conflict with Hamas.
When the topic shifted to Sweden's former security advisor Henrik Landerholm, who was recently tried for negligence with classified information, Kristersson became visibly irritated.
Nordenskiöld mentioned that Landerholm had claimed the security council was poorly functioning and lacked necessary support. After a clip from the trial, Kristersson was asked about his responsibility in the matter, which provoked his anger.
"No, now you're fishing for what happens in an ongoing trial. I will not comment on a trial," Kristersson stated.
"You know, and knew before the program started, that you wouldn't get answers about an ongoing trial," the Prime Minister continued when asked again.
SVT's Response
The Prime Minister emphasized that he believes the security council functions "very well." The program then moved on to other topics.
Kristersson's irritation was noted by several news outlets and users on X.
Was there an agreement not to ask about Landerholm?
"No, we didn't have that," said SVT's host Tomas Nordenskiöld on Monday.
"We know Ulf Kristersson doesn't want to talk about the legal process, but our assessment is that the question wasn't about that. It was about Landerholm's appointment and his role, and how this office functions—which Ulf Kristersson created. We have information from several sources that there are issues with the national security council in the government office, causing division and conflicts, and I think many want to know how the Prime Minister views this given everything that's happened."
"Incorrect Image"
The Prime Minister was also questioned about the Tidö parties' division in foreign policy, referencing Israel's conflict with Hamas and the frozen trade agreement. However, the premise of the question itself prompted Kristersson to protest and interrupt the host.
"Now you're drawing conclusions that are completely incorrect. We are not at odds over foreign policy."
When Nordenskiöld said it was evident that the Prime Minister and Jimmie Åkesson were indeed at odds, Kristersson stated that SD is not part of Sweden's foreign policy.
"You're painting a picture that may be journalistically exciting, but is incorrect," said the Prime Minister.
But Nordenskiöld disagreed:
"We feel confident in our questions. There is a division, and there has been a division within the government on how to handle Israel, and we base this on information we have from several sources, sources we have in and close to the government," he told Expressen.
"It's clear he was disturbed by these questions."
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