Guest column: If this fails, the credibility of Finland's defense will go
The article discusses the intertwined pillars of Finland's security: its military capability and the financial ability to sustain it, emphasizing the urgent need for credibility amidst a changed security environment.
The article highlights the dual pillars of Finland's defense strategy, which traditionally have been viewed separately: the military capabilities consisting of tanks, fighters, and trained reservists, and the financial resources necessary to support these military assets. It argues that in the current security landscape, these two elements cannot be regarded in isolation; they are interconnected aspects of a single reality. If one aspect fails, the credibility of Finland's defense will be fundamentally undermined.
The piece further elaborates on the transformed threat landscape in Europe, particularly focusing on Russia as the most significant threat due to its ongoing war in Ukraine and its long-term capabilities to exert pressure on neighboring countries. The article stresses that the European security environment is no longer shifting momentarily but has changed permanently, thereby necessitating a strong and credible defense framework.
Moreover, it argues against the presumption that the United States will always be available to fill the security gaps for Europe. The message to European nations is increasingly clear: reliance on external support can no longer be taken for granted, urging Finland to take proactive steps in reinforcing its defense credibility to ensure its safety and sovereignty in the face of growing uncertainties.