Suspected Russian Spy Beluga Spotted in Sweden
The beluga whale suspected of being a Russian spy, named Hvaldimir, has migrated to Swedish waters, reports OneWhale, a group dedicated to the creature's well-being.
In 2019, Hvaldimir gained notoriety for wearing a harness that could hold cameras, suggesting Russian military training. OneWhale announced Hvaldimir's presence in Sweden after a four-year journey from Norway's coast.
Notably, Hvaldimir avoided the bustling waters of Oslo and is now in Sweden, prompting swift protective measures by Swedish officials, including bridge closures.
Rich German, OneWhale's President, commended Sweden for safeguarding the vulnerable beluga. Norway's Directorate of Fisheries noted that Hvaldimir has frequented Norway's coast since 2019, often staying near farms for food.
The whale's tendency to approach boats raises concerns about possible injury in densely populated areas. CNN reported in 2019 that Hvaldimir's specialized harness, reading "Equipment St. Petersburg," indicated Russian origins and military use, supported by the Russian navy's history of training belugas for operations.
Notably, Hvaldimir avoided the bustling waters of Oslo and is now in Sweden, prompting swift protective measures by Swedish officials, including bridge closures.
Rich German, OneWhale's President, commended Sweden for safeguarding the vulnerable beluga. Norway's Directorate of Fisheries noted that Hvaldimir has frequented Norway's coast since 2019, often staying near farms for food.
The whale's tendency to approach boats raises concerns about possible injury in densely populated areas. CNN reported in 2019 that Hvaldimir's specialized harness, reading "Equipment St. Petersburg," indicated Russian origins and military use, supported by the Russian navy's history of training belugas for operations.
