People in Finland have been left unsettled by expansionist neighbor Russia and inspired by its recent accession to NATO, are increasingly taking national self-defense into their own hands.

Summary

Finland, recently joining NATO and sharing an 830-mile border with Russia, is bolstering its national defense amid concerns over Russia’s aggression, particularly after the invasion of Ukraine.

Weapons training and reservist activities have surged, with shooting range memberships doubling and over 120,000 defense training days held this year.

The government plans to build 300+ new shooting ranges and maintain Cold War-era shelters for 85% of its population.

Drawing on its history of resisting Russian forces, Finland is preparing civilians and military reservists for potential threats.

  • rc__buggy@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    242·
    4 days ago

    I learned how to shoot so I could harvest animals, these people are learning how to shoot to defeat an existential threat. Completely different worlds.

    I only know Finns through thier outstanding hockey talent in the NHL but I welcome them to NATO and have learned a little more about the country since they joined.

    • Nougat@fedia.io
      7·
      4 days ago

      I’m surprised that the Finns haven’t invented a biathlon that combines rally racing and target shooting.

      • hemko@lemmy.dbzer0.comEnglish
        11·
        4 days ago

        Biathlon comes from Sweden, but we finns have invented other interesting sports such as:

        • Sauna competition (cancelled indefinitely since the ruski died)
        • Wife carrying contest
        • Swamp football
        • mosquito killing competition
        • mobile phone throwing
        • berry picking championships