Finns Prepare for Potential Invasion
On a chilly Friday night, women gather on a military base in western Finland. They wear camouflage and purple beanie hats. Inside a dimly lit tent, they discuss Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This event has changed their views on the risks from Russia.
Sari, a 42-year-old saleswoman, shares her thoughts. “I didn’t think it was a real threat that Russia would attack us,” she says. “But after seeing what happened to Ukraine, I realized it’s possible that we are next.” She is one of 75 women attending a weekend course on survival skills.
The course, called Nasta, teaches skills for emergencies. Participants learn to cope with power outages and more serious threats. Finland has a long border with Russia and a complicated history with the country.
Interest in the program has surged since the invasion of Ukraine. The Women’s National Emergency Preparedness Association (WNEPA) runs this program and others like it. Topics include wilderness survival, first aid, cybersecurity, and mental resilience.
Tytti, 36, avoids the news due to anxiety about escalating tensions. She finds the course a way to confront her fears. Hannele, 67, expresses worries about hybrid warfare, which includes cyberattacks and disinformation.
Over the weekend, these women practice various skills. They learn to build fires, cook outdoors, and perform first aid. They work together, helping each other. Their efforts foster a sense of community.
Concerns about Russian threats are growing in Finland. A recent cable incident between Finland and Germany raised alarms. Finnish officials worry about espionage and misinformation.
Securing a place in these courses is competitive, like getting concert tickets. Aksela, Nasta’s communications manager, notes an increase in inquiries about emergency preparedness.
Finland’s history with Russia fuels seriousness about these threats. Since World War II, the country has been aware of potential dangers. Finland requires men to serve in the military, while women can volunteer. The country has over 50,000 bunkers for its citizens as a precaution.
There is an increase in women enrolling in shooting courses. The Finnish government plans to open more shooting ranges to bolster defense. Aksela acknowledges this growing interest, saying, “If I have to pick up a gun, we’re in deep trouble.”
Courses like Nasta are part of Finland’s plan to prepare citizens for emergencies. The national security strategy focuses on preparedness and resilience.
Despite fears, Finland maintains a practical approach. Turunen, deputy director of Finland’s intelligence service, emphasizes that readiness is crucial. He believes staying calm and prepared will help them face threats.
For many women at Nasta, the weekend is about learning and confronting fears. Aija, 58, wanted to feel more prepared. The war in Ukraine pushed her to take action.
With determination, these Finnish women practice skills for survival. They aim to be ready for storms, cyberattacks, or possible aggression from Russia. Their focus on preparation and resilience serves as their best defense.
About The Author
