Russia expands military presence near Finnish frontier
Swedish public media report that the Russians are expanding their military bases and installations near the NATO border. The reports are based on precise satellite images. Experts have no doubt that this is part of the Russian strategy related to Finland joining NATO.
The company Planet Labs PBC has taken satellite images showing unsettling movements of Russian troops near the border with Finland. The photographs display, among other things, new bases for aviation and warehouses for armoured vehicles. This fact was reported to the public by the Swedish public broadcaster.
In Petrozavodsk, approximately 175 kilometres east of the border with Finland, they have built three warehouses, each capable of accommodating up to 50 armoured vehicles - Swedish journalists reported.
More facilities are under construction. The Swedes and Finns have assured that they are closely monitoring the movements of the Russian army and will react if necessary. According to Swedish generals, the Russian military aims to increase its freedom of action near NATO. The move is related to Finland's and Sweden's accession to the North Atlantic Alliance.
Polish analysts share a similar perspective. Konrad Muzyka from Rochan Consulting points out that "Russia believes that NATO is striving for an invasion of its territory".
The Russian perspective is that NATO is striving for an invasion of their territory. That is why they are taking such steps, and the border with Finland represents a new area for them to prepare for defensive actions - the expert said in an interview with "Fakt".
The Russians are reinforcing the border, considering its challenging natural conditions. According to Muzyka, "The Kremlin is not preparing to invade Sweden or Finland", but is expanding its defensive capabilities and attempting to intimidate NATO.
