Russia Redeploys Military Forces from Finland's Borders to Ukraine

Russia has reportedly transferred a significant portion of its military forces stationed near Finland’s borders to Ukraine.

According to Finnish media outlet Yle, citing intelligence sources, Russian military bases near the Finnish border are now largely deserted, with an estimated 80% of personnel and equipment redeployed to the Ukrainian war zone.

Satellite imagery from Russian bases near Petrozavodsk shows a decrease in deployed equipment compared to the previous year, alongside the construction of new hangars. Additionally, observations from Kaukjarvi (renamed Kamianka by Russia) on the Karelian Isthmus indicate the presence of numerous tents suggesting temporary accommodations for mobilized personnel undergoing basic training.

Despite these redeployments, sources in Finnish intelligence note that Russia’s air defense capabilities around St. Petersburg remain intact and operational.

On May 28, Finnish President Alexander Stubb underscored the urgency for all security policies to prioritize support for Ukraine. Stubb emphasized Finland’s commitment to providing comprehensive support to Ukraine in its efforts to achieve victory.