Putin has chosen a 'second Ukraine': who will be the next victim — Welt

Russia is building up military infrastructure near the border with Finland, which could be preparation for a conflict with NATO after the war in Ukraine. Satellite images show the expansion of bases in Pechenga, Kandalaksha, and Novaya Vilga. Experts estimate the possible deployment of up to 115,000 troops. Finland has lifted its ban on the transit of nuclear weapons, drawing a negative reaction from Russia.

The German publication Welt reports that Russia is actively building up military infrastructure near the border with Finland, which could be preparation for a new phase after the end of the war against Ukraine. Satellite images, studied by journalists from Scandinavian and Baltic media together with experts, show the construction and modernization of military facilities in several areas. The largest project is the expansion of the base in Pechenga, where the number of personnel is planned to increase from about 4,000 to 10,000 troops. Facilities are also being created near Kandalaksha and near the village of Novaya Vilga, where a new 44th Army Corps could be stationed. Experts suggest that Russia could deploy up to 115,000 troops in the region, comparable to Cold War levels. The head of Swedish intelligence, Thomas Nilsson, said that this is about creating capabilities for participation in a larger military conflict. Analysts link these actions to the Leningrad Military District created in 2024 and the importance of the Kola Peninsula for strategic deterrence. Finland, for its part, has lifted its ban on the transit and temporary deployment of nuclear weapons, which drew a negative reaction from Russia.