Finnish general: Finland ready to fight Russia if attacked

“Finland has prepared for decades for a Russian attack,” said Chief of Defense of Finland, Timo Kivinen, Report informs, citing RBC-Ukraine.

“Finland has prepared for decades for a Russian attack and would put up stiff resistance should one occur. We have systematically developed our military defence precisely for this type of warfare that is being waged there (in Ukraine), with massive use of firepower, armoured forces, and also airforces,” he stressed.

Kivinen noted that his country has built up a substantial arsenal: “But aside from the military hardware, a crucial factor is that Finns would be motivated to fight. Even after joining NATO, the main responsibility for Finland's defence will still be borne by Finland."

Russia has repeatedly made harsh statements against Finland over its desire to join NATO. Russia has threatened the country primarily with nuclear weapons. Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev stressed the need to strengthen the protection of Russian borders with Finland.