Finland conducts major civil defense exercise amid security concerns

KUOPIO, Finland (AP) — In a civil defense shelter carved into rock, two Finnish conscripts wearing hazmat suits and breathing masks are measuring radiation levels as part of an exercise aimed at transforming a cave into a safe haven for thousands. Inside a sports hall, hundreds of individuals are sleeping on trestle beds. More than 2,000 participants, including volunteers and students, are involved in the largest civil defense exercise in Europe since World War II. The scenario involves disruptions to critical infrastructure in Kuopio, Finland, due to cyberattacks and potential missile threats from Russia. The exercise, named Shelter 2026, is designed to test how to protect a large population during emergencies. The goal is to prepare local authorities and citizens for real attacks. While underground shelters may offer some protection, they do not guard against the sabotage and disruption that Western officials attribute to Russia, which includes attacks on water facilities and power stations. Finland shares an 830-mile (1,300 kilometers) border with Russia and joined NATO in 2024, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Retired Army Colonel Asko Muhonen, who organized the exercise, emphasized the importance of a collective mindset among Finns regarding national security. Conscription continues in Finland, fostering a sense of duty among citizens. Jyry Pietikainen, a 23-year-old conscript, stated, "It’s our duty to serve and protect this country like people have before us. That’s why we have our independence." Muhonen noted that Finland can learn from Ukraine's experiences during the conflict. The largest shelter in Kuopio can accommodate 7,000 people, but accessibility is crucial, as Ukrainians often had limited time to find shelter during missile strikes. Dmytro Untila, a Ukrainian student in Kuopio, recounted seeking refuge in his building's entrance hall during a missile attack in Odesa. Juha Räsänen, CEO of Savon Voima electricity company, highlighted that heavy snowfall and storms pose significant threats to energy infrastructure, but cyberattacks have surged since the invasion of Ukraine. Räsänen reported finding stickers on vulnerable parts of the energy network, and drone sightings have raised concerns. He emphasized the importance of self-reliance during emergencies, advising people to be prepared to manage without assistance for at least 72 hours. The Finnish Security and Intelligence Service stated it has investigated various observations and found no cause for concern, attributing many reports to everyday occurrences. Vuokko Lahtinen, a visitor in Kuopio, noted that small incidents, including Russian GPS jamming, are ongoing, underscoring the need for vigilance.