Russia's aim is to destabilise, divide and dominate, says head of the Army on visit to Finland
Russia is not just waging a war against Ukraine, but also aims to destabilise Europe, the head of the Army has warned.
"It wants to separate the United States from Europe, divide Europe and create a sphere of influence in which Russia can control its neighbours," said General Sir Roly Walker, who was speaking during a visit to Finland.
"In short, the goal is to destabilise, divide and dominate."
During his visit, Gen Sir Roly sat down with the commander and the chief of operations of the Finnish Defence Forces.
His visit took place as Lieutenant General Pasi Välimaki's tenure in charge of the Finnish army comes to an end.
"I'd to say farewell to my friend Lt Gen Pasi Välimaki as he hands over command of the Finnish army," Gen Sir Roly said in a post on X.
"Thank you for your leadership both in Finland and in Nato."
During the talks, the former commander of the Grenadier Guardsr spoke to his counterparts about the cooperation between the UK and Finnish army and ways to improve it.
They also discussed how both countries need to learn lessons from Ukraine and how these lessons can be developed in relation to readiness, operational concepts and approaches, especially regarding Nato's eastern flank.
The Chief of the General Staff also emphasised that deterrence is more than military force and that national resilience and industrial capacity are important too.
"Deterrence is not just the number of soldiers on the frontline. It is about our ability to renew, produce and endure," Gen Sir Roly added.
"Russia watches our factories as closely as it watches our pots. That is why industry and finance must become our fourth branch."
"General Walker's 20-40-40 vision is changing the way the British Army trains and equips. We work closely together and look for opportunities for joint development, procurement and training in connection with the renewal of our army," Lt Gen Välimaki said.
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