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Finland Invests in Defense, Ready to Mobilize 280,000 Troops Against Russian Aggression
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Finland’s President, Alexander Stubb, assured that Finland is capable of defending itself in the event of military aggression from Russia. He expressed this position on January 21 during a discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, as reported by Radio Svoboda.
“When asked whether Finland’s armed forces can defend against a Russian attack, based on our defense structure and organization–yes, we are capable,” Stubb said.
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He emphasized that Finland has systematically invested in defense for decades and has not weakened its military capabilities since the end of the Cold War.
The country maintains a conscription system, with about one million citizens having served, and can mobilize up to 280,000 troops within a few weeks, Radio Svoboda wrote.
“We have 62 F-18 fighter jets. The next question is: do they fly without Americans? No, they don’t. But do we trust that they will continue to fly because it’s in America’s interest? Yes, we do,” Stubb said “We just purchased 64 F-35 fighter jets. We have the largest artillery in Europe alongside Poland. We also possess long-range missiles – land, sea, and air.”
Stubb also voiced concerns about Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, noting that Russia’s economy can no longer afford to end the war due to its military-driven economic shift.
“Look at Russia’s economy now: based on inflation for the first two weeks, we’re seeing about 30% inflation this year, 16% interest rates, zero growth, no reserves, and inability to pay soldiers when the war ends,” Stubb said. “So, I’m more concerned about Russia’s unwillingness to end this war because it cannot afford it, rather than its ability to win.”
It was previously reported that Finland would send its 31st defense aid package to Ukraine, with the decision approved by the country’s president on the government’s proposal.
The package is valued at about $113 million, bringing the total value of Finnish military assistance to Ukraine to roughly $3.6 billion since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Stubb’s comments come amid rising tensions following Russia’s threats towards Finland, particularly after Finland’s NATO membership, military strengthening, and its support for Ukraine.
Finland continues to actively support Ukraine, and Stubb plays a pivotal role in EU leaders’ negotiations with US President Donald Trump on peace efforts and support for Ukraine, according to Radio Svoboda.
Earlier, Finland’s Army held a series of major winter training exercises near the border with Russia to test the readiness of roughly 15,000 soldiers, including conscripts, reservists, and allied troops, to defend the country under wartime conditions.
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