This Swedish holiday island could be on the verge of Russian invasion

As Sweden ponders joining NATO, a remote holiday destination in the Baltic Sea is once again bolstering its defences.

Known as a paradise isle of unspoiled wilderness and sandy beaches, Gotland has long been a popular vacation spot for many Swedes.

Complete with Viking-age settlements and iconic rock formations, the 170-kilometre outcrop attracts over two million visitors every year to enjoy the peace and simplicity of island life.

But just over three decades ago, the holiday hotspot served a far different purpose.

Strategically located just 300 kilometres from the home of Russia's Baltic Fleet, it acted as a key deterrent against Soviet expansion.

And as tensions surrounding Sweden’s proposed application to NATO grow, the Scandinavian nation is rebuilding its military presence on Gotland once again.

"There will be more soldiers and more activity on Gotland,” says Colonel Magnus Frykvall, commander of the Gotland Battalion.

“We have to build a bigger and better military capacity due to the current situation."

Sweden - alongside Finland - is expected to reveal in the coming days whether it will ask to join the NATO military alliance.

Coming out in favour of joining would be a historic development for either nation. Sweden has avoided military alliances for more than 200 years, while Finland adopted neutrality after being defeated by the Soviet Union in the Second World War.

Earlier this week, Russia warned of severe consequences if either nation were to join the alliance. But as Putin’s war in Ukraine continues, many Gotland locals are eager to defend their nation at all costs.

"People are a bit worried, but we're trying to keep everybody calm,” says Camilla Selander, a deli-counter worker who has joined the island's Home Guard.

“We