NATO to Deploy Troops in Finland as Deterrent Against Russia

According to newspaper Iltalehti, up to 5,000 troops will be stationed in Finland, just 90 miles from the border, as part of a NATO plan to deploy an armored brigade to serve as a deterrent against Russia.

The unit is expected to be stationed in the town of Mikkeli, located in the south-eastern part of Finland, close to the Russian border. The brigade will consist of NATO troops from neighboring Sweden and Norway, and the decision to deploy them is aimed at strengthening preventative deterrence against potential Russian threats.

Finland, previously neutral, became a NATO member in April 2023 due to concerns over the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The move has prompted Moscow to adjust its defense posture in the north-western part of Russia. However, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen emphasized the need for a comprehensive NATO presence in Finland to address any potential crisis situations, including large-scale military exercises in case of tensions at the border with Russia.

Russian officials have expressed concerns over increased military activities in Finland since its NATO membership, viewing it as part of the West’s efforts to strategically weaken Russia.

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