NRK: – Russian intelligence would recruit moles into PST – Aftenposten

For Russia it is important to know what PST know about Russian methods. Therefore, Russian intelligence attempted to place people within the PST, which would report back to them, a so-called mole. It confirms PST to NRK.

– You can never be 100 percent sure, but we do not think Russian intelligence has succeeded in this, says Arne Christian Haugstøyl, head of counter-intelligence in PST.

Russia has tried to get both ethnic Norwegians and ethnic Russians into PST. The experiments are relatively new, and has lately increased.

Freelance journalist and author Kjetil Stormark say that Norway is a very attractive target for Russian intelligence.

– Our geographical location has a huge strategic importance. In addition, Norway door into the large fish and energy resources in the sea areas we control.

– Perhaps most important is it to get information about what knowledge Norway receives from NATO. Ultimately, increased espionage operations against a country be war preparatory actions. This should not be taken lightly, says Stormark.

Published: May 20. 2015 8:07 p.m.