Russia Simulates Attacks on Finland and Baltics in Massive Military Drills

Russia is conducting military exercises simulating possible attacks on Finland and the Baltic states, according to reports by Iltalehti Journal. These drills involve tens of thousands of troops and reflect Moscow’s broader ambitions to establish a strategic buffer zone in Europe.

Sources within NATO suggest that Russia’s strategic focus includes Finland, Norway, and the Baltic states. A NATO threat assessment indicates that Moscow aims to extend its strategic depth across Europe, from the Arctic to the Mediterranean, with plans to integrate key territories into a unified buffer zone.

The exercises reportedly involve various military scenarios. In the north, the 14th Army Corps is said to be preparing to attack Norway’s coastline from Murmansk via sea, air, and land. Simultaneously, Russian forces are simulating an amphibious landing in Finnish Lapland. Missile troops stationed on the Kola Peninsula are also targeting Finland, with Helsinki identified as a potential focal point for strikes.

In an analysis of Russia’s strategic approach, Iltalehti Journal highlights ambitions to restore “historical territories,” specifically those delineated in the 1743 Treaty of Turku. Under this scenario, Russian forces might aim to reach the Kymi River and advance further north toward Puumala.

Russia’s intent to create a buffer zone aligns with its perceived need for “strategic depth,” as reflected in NATO's threat assessments. These plans raise concerns among neighboring countries, especially those sharing borders with Russia, including Finland, Estonia, and Latvia.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin has previously emphasized his vision of reclaiming historical territories, citing the Russian Empire of the 17th century as an aspirational model. On December 19, Putin declared that Russia possesses the resources necessary to achieve this objective. Western experts advise taking these statements seriously, given their alignment with Russia’s recent military activities and geopolitical actions.

The Baltic states and Finland, NATO members with direct borders with Russia, remain particularly vulnerable to Moscow’s ambitions. These nations are among NATO's top contributors to defense spending relative to GDP, reflecting their heightened security concerns.

Earlier, Finland’s Criminal Police seized the tanker Eagle S, suspected of involvement in the damage to the Estlink 2 underwater cable. The vessel, now under investigation in Porvoo, is undergoing technical analysis to determine its role in the incident.