A new investigation shows Russia increasing its military presence near Finland. SVT and partner media have reviewed satellite images and interviews pointing to faster buildup.
SVT together with DR, NRK and Delfi has examined new satellite images showing Russian buildup at several sites on the other side of the Finnish border. Russia is preparing space for a total of 80,000 soldiers, compared with 20,000 previously, according to Finland’s army chief Pasi Välimäki. MUST Chief Thomas Nilsson describes it as a threat that should be taken seriously. According to MUST, Russia is building a structure that can be filled once the war in Ukraine ends, with a total of eight divisions in the area. NATO is responding with increased presence, including the Swedish-led front base FLF Finland. Major General Brian Nissen warns that the threat could rise quickly if there is a ceasefire in Ukraine. Russia’s embassies state that the buildup is defensive, while Putin’s adviser Sergei Karaganov describes NATO as a cancer that Russia may need to escalate against.
