The President of Finland stated in Davos that the country is prepared for a possible attack by Russia.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb said that his country is capable of effectively defending itself in the event of a possible attack by Russia. He made this statement on Wednesday during a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Responding to a question about the readiness of the Finnish armed forces, Stubb emphasised that Finland has compulsory military service, which sets it apart from many NATO countries. According to him, the state is capable of mobilising about 280,000 military personnel within a few weeks. He also stressed that Finland, together with Poland, has one of the most powerful artillery forces in Europe, as well as long-range land, sea and air-based missiles.
The president drew particular attention to the country's air force. Finland has 62 F-18 fighter jets in service, as well as 64 recently purchased F-35 fighter jets. Stubb acknowledged that technical cooperation with the United States is needed to maintain their combat readiness, but expressed confidence that this support will continue, as it is in Washington's interests.
Speaking about geographical risks, the president recalled that Finland has a land border with Russia stretching for about 1,300 kilometres and has historically built its defence with this factor in mind. He also noted that Finland has the largest Arctic forces in the Alliance.
Stubb placed particular emphasis on civil preparedness. According to him, the country has created a system of shelters designed to accommodate 4.4 million people, as well as ensuring the stability of food, energy and electricity supplies. The president stressed that wars are fought on the battlefield but won in the rear, and it is this approach, in his opinion, that other European states should adopt.
Finland joined NATO after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Amid fears of a possible wider war in Europe, Stubb said that Europe is capable of defending itself and that the Alliance is currently in the process of strengthening and is the strongest it has been since the end of the Cold War.
Source and photo: Businessinsider
Stubb, Finland, Russia, USA, NATO
