Jette Albinus leads NATO forces in Latvia amid hybrid warfare concerns

Jette Albinus, Denmark’s first female major general, leads NATO forces in Latvia, also known as Multinational Division North, which includes around 4,000 troops, over 800 of whom are Danish soldiers stationed at Camp Valdemar, situated less than 200 kilometers from the Russian border. She acknowledges the seriousness of her role, emphasizing that the region is not at peace but is instead experiencing what is often referred to as hybrid warfare. This involves extensive activities in cyberspace, espionage, and misinformation, areas in which Russia excels.

Currently, although there is no immediate military threat, Albinus carries the responsibility of defending Latvia and Europe should Russia choose to invade. In such a scenario, she would lead a force of between 15,000 and 20,000 soldiers into battle. While she plans to be on the ground with her troops, she also has to make critical decisions about their strategy and operations. This dual responsibility brings about a complex emotional experience for her.

Albinus expresses both readiness and humility regarding her duties, recognizing the gravity of her command. She reflects on how the weight of the task can sometimes cause her anxiety but emphasizes the importance of managing this stress by tackling challenges incrementally.

Her primary mission remains deterrence, aiming to prevent conflict so effectively that Russia thinks twice before any aggressive action. Albinus is committed to ensuring her forces are prepared to defend Latvia, striving to excel at deterrence to maintain stability in the region.