**Finland on High Alert: Monitoring Russian Activities Amid Reports of Military Build-up**
The Defense Minister of Finland, Antti Hakkanen, has stated that the country is “closely monitoring and assessing Russia’s activities and intentions” near its border. This comes after reports emerged that Finland expects a significant Russian military build-up along their shared 1,300-kilometer (800-mile) border.
Finland joined NATO in 2023, and since then, there have been concerns about the potential for Russia to attack alliance members in the coming years. The country has invested heavily in preparedness for all types of disruptions and crises.
“We have excellent capabilities to observe Russian operations,” Hakkanen said, adding that Finland’s strong security position as a member of NATO provides reassurance. However, he acknowledged that Russia’s actions aimed at strengthening its armed forces have not come as a surprise to Finland.
**Russia’s Military Build-up**
Major General Sami Nurmi, the head of strategy for the Finnish defense forces, stated on May 21 that Russian military has begun moderate preparations for building infrastructure close to Finnish borders. This was supported by satellite images published by The New York Times, which seem to indicate an expansion of military facilities near the border.
In response to these developments, Finland’s Border Guard announced the completion of the first 35 km (22 miles) of a planned 200 km fence along its eastern border with Russia on May 21. This comes after over a year of closure due to allegations that Moscow orchestrated a “hybrid operation” by directing asylum seekers toward Finland.
**Global Reactions**
US President Donald Trump, when asked about Russia’s recent actions on May 20, stated that he had “no concerns,” assuring that Finland and Norway would remain “very safe.” However, this contrasts with the heightened tensions among NATO countries near Russian borders. Poland and Baltic countries have strengthened their borders shared with Russia and Belarus while urging higher defense spending across the alliance.
Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov previously stated that Russia must be ready for a potential conflict with NATO in the next 10 years, fueling concerns about Moscow’s intentions. The Kremlin has also issued veiled and overt threats to the West over its support for Kyiv, including warnings of a possible nuclear response.
**What Does it Mean?**
Finland’s increased vigilance near its border reflects growing tensions between Russia and NATO countries. As global powers continue to maneuver, one thing is clear: Finland and other NATO members are not taking any chances when it comes to their national security.
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