Finland aware of Russian buildup near border, defence minister says

Finland is closely monitoring Russia’s military buildup and infrastructure projects near its border, Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen told Yle on Thursday.

Russia is rapidly constructing a large new garrison in Petrozavodsk, close to the Finnish border, which military expert Marko Eklund estimates could house a motorised infantry brigade or the main elements of a motorised infantry division—around 4,000–6,000 troops, with supporting units potentially bringing the total to nearly 15,000.

Häkkänen said Finland has precise knowledge of Russia’s activities, which align with its announced plans. He noted that Russia is forming new units, expanding troop numbers, and building capacity for rapid mobilisation from other regions.

“There’s nothing surprising about the fact that, at the same time, we in Finland and NATO are strengthening our own defence capabilities,” Häkkänen said, adding that Europe must keep pace with Russia’s military expansion.

He declined to specify what Finland knows but reassured the public: “Finns can remain completely calm.”