Russia is preparing for the second phase of military aggression - Finnish Defence Ministry

Russia is massing troops to the EU's borders

Minister of Defence of Finland Antti Häkkinen said. Russia is building up its military presence near the borders of the European Union and is preparing for “the second phase of military aggression”.

“We are witnessing a gradual redeployment of Russian troops and equipment closer to our borders. This indicates preparations for a new active phase of hostilities”, the Minister stressed.

According to him, the situation in north-eastern Europe is “becoming increasingly tense” and The EU should be prepared for any scenario, including hybrid threats.

Finland strengthens its defence

After joining NATO, Finland has been actively strengthening its defence, including building fortifications on its eastern border, modernising its aviation and purchasing systems Patriot і F-35.

“Our task is to ensure that not a single metre of Finland's territory becomes a foothold for the aggressor”, Häkkinen added.

He also called on the Nordic countries to “respond jointly to Russia's preparations for a long-term confrontation with NATO”.

Context.

According to military analysts, after the mobilisation waves, Russia restores the combat capability of units, who suffered losses in Ukraine, and deploying training camps in the regions bordering the Baltic and Scandinavian countries.

Earlier, similar activity was reported by the intelligence services of Estonia and Poland, which warned of “reorganisation of the Russian army to fit the format of a long war”.