Finland is strengthening its defenses in response to the expansion of Russian military bases near its borders

Finland, in cooperation with NATO, is actively strengthening its defense capabilities in response to Russia’s expansion of military bases and infrastructure in neighboring regions. This was stated by Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hykkänen.

The head of the Finnish Defense Ministry noted that the Kremlin’s actions are entirely expected and align with Moscow’s previously announced plans to create new military units, increase troop numbers, and expand capabilities for rapid mobilization. Hakkinen called on Europe to keep pace with the current rate of Russia’s militarization, but assured his compatriots that there is no cause for panic and that Finns can remain confident in their security.

These statements came against the backdrop of a joint investigation by media outlets in Northern Europe and the Baltic states, which used satellite imagery to document the emergence of new barracks, ammunition depots, and columns of military equipment at Russian facilities capable of housing tens of thousands of troops. At the same time, General Alexus Grinkevich, Commander of NATO’s Allied Forces in Europe, expressed the view that Russia is not currently seeking a direct conflict with the Alliance, despite the general concern among European allies over a possible future reduction in the U.S. military presence in the region.

Yle reports on this.

The Russian Federation has begun large-scale construction of a new military base near Finland’s eastern border, marking the first project of this scale since Soviet times. The new military facility is being built in the village of Nova Vilga near Petrozavodsk in the Republic of Karelia. 

Russia could deploy up to 115,000 troops near NATO.