Executive Summary

Russia is engaged in a strategic, long-term military build-up along its border with Finland. Heightened after Finland’s accession to NATO, this development poses significant implications for regional security and the broader coherence of NATO’s eastern flank. Finland, having joined NATO in 2023 following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, now shares Europe’s longest direct border with the alliance, stretching 1,340 kilometres. Satellite imagery and expert analysis reveal reinforced military presence, new infrastructure, and an increase in troop numbers. As such, this escalation indicates a sustained effort beyond immediate wartime needs. While the observed Russian build-up falls short of pre-Ukraine invasion levels, its strategic nature is evident from the establishment of permanent infrastructure and long-term force restructuring. Concurrently, Helsinki is implementing robust defensive measures and bolstering its military capabilities to deter potential Russian aggression.

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