Russia Builds New Military Base Near Finnish Border

Russia is building a new military base at Novaya Vilga near Petrozavodsk in Karelia, significantly strengthening its presence close to the Finnish border, Finnish public broadcaster Yle reported.

Satellite images show extensive construction of barracks, command buildings and other infrastructure. Military expert Marko Eklund said the base could accommodate 4,000 to 6,000 soldiers once completed.

Eklund said the number of Russian troops in Karelia could rise to about 15,000 when broader military expansion in the region is finished.

The project is linked to Russia’s re-establishment of the Leningrad Military District, which Moscow revived after Finland joined NATO. Older bases are also being renovated and new facilities for railway troops are planned.

Eklund said the base would take years to build, but would significantly increase Russia’s military capabilities near the Finnish border once completed.

(mja)