Preparing for war with Russia: Three European countries launch military training for civilians
Photo: Russia's neighbors are preparing for the worst-case scenario (Getty Images)
Norway, Finland, and Poland are expanding military training programs for civilians amid growing concerns over the threat posed by Russia. Citizens are being taught how to handle firearms, engage in urban warfare, operate drones, and provide first aid to the wounded, Bild reports.
Norway has declared 2026 the year of "total defense." Under this concept, national defense involves not only the military but also government institutions, businesses, and the general public.
Norway's Home Guard (Heimevernet) has more than 40,000 members, almost twice the size of the regular army, which has approximately 23,000 personnel. Its reservists include lawyers, electricians, bankers, insurance agents, and farmers. Many of them leave their regular jobs once a year to participate in military training exercises.
In September, Oslo hosted the largest Home Guard exercise of the year, involving around 5,000 armed reservists. "We stand in the Russians' way," former Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg told SZ in an interview. It is worth noting that Norway shares an almost 200-kilometer border with Russia.
Poland has introduced several civilian military training programs. One of them offers weekend courses covering military fundamentals and evacuation procedures. In the first few weeks following the program's launch in 2025, around 18,000 people enrolled in the courses.
Another initiative, Train with the Army, provides training under the supervision of military personnel. Volunteers learn how to handle firearms, throw training grenades, and master other military skills. In some cities, demand was so high that waiting lists were introduced.
Military fundamentals are also taught in Polish schools. Teenagers learn how to provide first aid, survive in extreme conditions, and act during an armed conflict. Shooting training is available to students starting at the age of 14.
As RBC-Ukraine previously reported, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Russia is ready for war with Europe.
Meanwhile, the British government stated that the country has just over 1,000 days to prepare for a potential war with Russia.
