6,000 can be accommodated in Helsinki Mega-Bunker • New Defense Cooperation-Zelenskyj praises Finland
On Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj was in place in Helsinki for a meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and discussions about renewed defense cooperation.
On site, Zelesknyj also took the opportunity to visit the country’s largest shelter – with room for 6,000 people.
“Finland has very good experience in building civil shelters and today signed our countries a letter of intent that launches a new collaboration for shelters. This is very important. Ukraine is working to increase the number of safe places and shelters in our country and it will definitely happen,” writes Ukrainian president on its social channels.
“Thanks to Finland and all partners who support the cooperation. The security and protection of our people is a priority,” he continues.
Activity Center in the Megabunker
Zelenskyj has also published video material from his visit to the gigantic bunker. In addition to the protection site for thousands, there are floor plans, gyms, swimming pools and playgrounds.
TV4 News reporter Magnus Wennerberg visited the same shelter as Zelenskyj 2023. From the outside it does not look special, but 20 meters down in the bedrock there is protection against both nuclear weapons and checkers.
In recent years, Finland has reviewed its shelters. According to the latest figures, there are more than 50,000, which holds just over 4.8 out of 5.5 million of the country’s citizens.
“We have a neighbor who makes radical decisions,” says Tomi Rask, teacher Civil Defense Helsinki Rescue Service, in the interview with TV4.
June 5, 2023
The teacher in civil defense shows the large shelter in Helsinki
World leader in shelters
Finland has built shelters since 1929 and describes itself as a world leader in the field.
– It is wise to prepare. We live in a part of the world where things occur. We have a neighbor who makes radical decisions, says Tomi Rask, while stating that the equipment needs to develop.
– For me who has grown up in Finland, the only way to go is. It is necessary. Not a choice. I do not feel that there is any danger right now but if I need to seek protection then I know that I am protected there.