Finland moves troops near Russian border, NATO conducts military exercises

Finland has deployed military forces near its border with Russia as part of a series of joint NATO exercises taking place in northern Europe, a development that comes at a time of heightened security tensions on the continent.

The artillery maneuvers called "Northern Strike 26" have begun just about 70 kilometers from the Russian border, including various combat scenarios simulated in conditions as close to operational reality as possible.

A large number of allied countries are participating in the exercise, including Estonia, Lithuania, Norway, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, Hungary, Poland and Finland itself.

The broad participation of NATO forces emphasizes the alliance's coordination and joint readiness in this strategic part of Europe.

According to military sources, the main goal of these exercises is to strengthen cooperation between allied forces, test rapid response capabilities, and prepare for possible armed conflict scenarios.

The exercises include the use of heavy artillery, coordination of ground units, and simulations of operations in difficult climatic conditions.

Military authorities have stressed that these maneuvers are part of a regular NATO exercise plan and are aimed at increasing collective security in the region. However, the proximity to the Russian border makes the activity closely watched in diplomatic and geopolitical terms.