Russian military bases near the Finnish border are reportedly almost empty, as per a report by Finnish media outlet Yle. The intelligence source cited in the report stated that Russia has redeployed personnel and equipment towards the conflict in Ukraine. This movement comes after Russia had previously issued threats to Finland regarding its potential NATO membership, with the Russian Foreign Ministry promising a response of a “technical-military and other nature.”
Despite Russia’s warnings to Finland and promises to increase military presence near the border, Yle’s report indicates that military bases in the region are currently less occupied compared to a year ago. The intelligence source mentioned that on average, 80% of equipment and soldiers have been redirected to participate in the conflict in Ukraine. The specific proportion of redeployed personnel and equipment varies by base, influenced by factors like season and training exercises.
The report suggests that Russia is not only pulling resources from bases near the Finnish border but also from various locations across its extensive territory, excluding the Moscow region. Satellite images obtained by Yle show observable changes at Russian military bases, such as the disappearance of equipment at a base near Petrozavodsk between May 2024 and June 2023.
One striking observation from the images is the appearance of a new hangar at one base, accompanied by equipment left outdoors. At another location on the Karelian Isthmus, known as Kaukjarvi (or Kamyanka by the Russians), multiple tents have been set up, likely to accommodate personnel such as mobilized individuals or conscripts undergoing basic training. Despite these movements, the report mentions that the air defense systems around St. Petersburg remain robust.
Overall, the report highlights a significant reduction in military presence near the Finnish border, with a notable shift in resources towards the conflict in Ukraine. The satellite images obtained by Yle provide visual evidence of these changes, indicating the movement of equipment and personnel within Russian military bases. This development comes in the context of heightened tensions between Russia and neighboring countries, particularly regarding issues of security and military activities.
In conclusion, the situation at Russian military bases near the Finnish border reflects a strategic reallocation of resources towards the conflict in Ukraine, with implications for regional security dynamics. The shifting military landscape, as depicted in the satellite images, underscores the evolving nature of Russia’s military operations and priorities. As Finland continues to navigate its relationship with NATO and monitor developments in the region, the changes at Russian bases serve as a noteworthy development with potential implications for broader geopolitical stability.
Article Source
https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/06/19/finnish-intel-russian-bases-near-border-stripped-for-ukraine-war/