But the Finnish president is also upbeat about the military strength of Europe as a whole. It is for the rest of Europe, including Britain, to follow, with investment in defence appropriate for its size and priorities. Russian aggression has already prompted Finland to close its eastern border, causing economic damage but demonstrating the need for military strength. But it is also a symptom of Britain’s failure to update and invest in its military strength, particularly the Royal Navy. We must, in a manner appropriate to Britain, follow suit.

Source: Daily Mirror March 15, 2026 15:04 UTC