Finland Holds Largest Civil Defense Exercise Since World War II

Finland is carrying out Europe's largest civil defense exercise since the end of World War II in the city of Kuopio to prepare against potential threats and cyberattacks from Russia.

Comprehensive Exercise in the City of Kuopio

The civil defense exercise held in Finland's city of Kuopio stands out as the largest-scale organization carried out in Europe since the end of World War II.

Within the scope of the exercise, more than 2,000 people, including volunteers and students, are coming together to prepare for potential crisis moments.

Operations Carried Out in Underground Shelters

Military reservists operating in shelters carved into rock, which are resistant to nuclear or biological attacks, are carrying out work to measure potential radiation levels.

Hundreds of people are spending the night on cots in underground areas normally used as sports halls, experiencing shelter conditions.

Critical Infrastructure and Missile Scenarios

According to the exercise scenario, critical infrastructure systems such as electricity and water in the city of Kuopio are disrupted due to cyberattacks, and missile threats are simulated.

Local authorities and civilians practice how they should act in the event of a real attack through this comprehensive scenario.

Sabotage Threats and Security Measures

Western officials state that while underground shelters provide protection against missiles, they are not sufficient on their own against sabotage activities carried out across Europe.

Security measures are being stepped up across the European Union against various sabotage risks, such as water facilities, energy stations, and arson attempts.

NATO Membership and Border Security

Finland's border with Russia spans a length of more than 1,300 kilometers from the Baltic Sea to the Arctic Circle.

Following the campaign launched against Ukraine by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Finland and Sweden joined NATO in 2024.