Finland stages Europe's largest civil defense drill since WWII

Finland is conducting Europe's largest civil defense exercise since World War II, with over 2,000 participants rehearsing responses to cyberattacks and missile threats in the city of Kuopio. The exercise simulates disruption to critical infrastructure by Russia, testing shelters designed to withstand nuclear or biological attacks. Organizers emphasize Finland's conscription system and civilian preparedness, drawing lessons from Ukraine's experience with rapid attacks. Finnish authorities report increased cyberattacks and suspicious activity on energy networks since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Veterans recall past wars with the Soviet Union, while officials stress that civilian resilience and vigilance remain central to national defense.