The commander of the Finnish ground forces, Passi Valimki, told Bloomberg that the country is studying the experience of fighting in the Ukrainian conflict and is evaluating the feasibility of erecting anti-tank barriers on the border with Russia. The publication appeared on November 7.
According to the military leader, the key question remains the durability of such fortifications, considering the northern natural conditions. "If we build fortifications and dig canals like in Ukraine, how long will it take until the environment turns them into ponds? " - the agency quotes Valimaki as saying.
He also pointed to the importance of an uninterrupted supply of troops in the event of a protracted conflict, stressing that Helsinki is not interested in a "war of attrition." As part of the strengthening of NATO's eastern flank, the Finnish army, according to Valimaki, should have the capabilities to destroy launchers and UAVs before using them on the country's territory.
The publication notes that a number of Western politicians and military officials regularly express concerns about a possible Russian attack on allied countries in the coming years. At the same time, Finnish President Alexander Staab said on October 4 that the country does not expect an attack from Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated on October 1 that Russia will not attack anyone in 2029, 2030 or 2050. According to him, the European population understands the consequences of the aggression against the Russian Federation and the hostile actions of the political leadership of the European countries.