Finland considers the possibility of placing the NATO armored brigade with a number of 4-5 thousand soldiers near the border with Russia in Mickel.
Finnie's Defense Minister Antta Hakikanen has confirmed that the country's authorities were negotiating with NATO member states on the possibility of placing the Alliance troops in its territory. According to him, the final decision to place NATO headquarters in Finland will be made in the fall.
Hakukyanen noted that such a decision would allow Finland to use the help of allies in "crisis situations". He also stressed that the tense situation on the border could provoke additional exercises of the Allies.
“We do not publicly comment on these negotiations by the Ministry of Defense. They are conducted with several different countries. We are talking about which countries could allocate certain military structures to ensure the security of Finland, ”the Minister of Defense added.
NATO troops in Finland can significantly change the military situation in the region, especially in the context of tension with Russia. It can also lead to increased military exercises and increasing the overall security level in northern Europe.
The Finnish authorities, thus, tries to provide additional defense support in response to Russia's threats and strengthen its cooperation with NATO.
“We must continue to ensure our country's reliable defense. NATO's partnership is an important part of our security strategy, ”Hakukiann said.
It is expected that in the coming months there will be more information about the specific details of placement and cooperation with the Alliance.
