Finland rehearses cyberattacks and missile strikes in Europe's largest defense exercise since WWII

Finland hosted Europe's largest civil defense exercise since World War II in Kuopio, rehearsing responses to cyberattacks and missile threats from Russia, with over 2,000 participants practicing shelter operations. The exercise simulated disruption to critical infrastructure, including power and water, while Finnish officials cited increased cyberattacks and drone sightings since Russia's 2022 Ukraine invasion. Finland joined NATO in 2024, ending decades of largely independent defense. Finnish resilience stems from conscription and historical memory of Soviet wars, with veterans recalling past displacements. Organizers emphasize learning from Ukraine's experience, where civilians often have minutes to reach shelter, and stress citizens should prepare to survive 72 hours independently.