![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/78\/590x\/secondary\/russia-suwalki-gap-nato-4984832.jpg?r=1695980147585\")
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The prolonged and challenging nature of Russia’s military campaign – something which Vladimir Putin clearly wasn’t expecting – in Ukraine, coupled with the nation’s focus on this conflict, has limited Moscow\u2019s ability to flex its military muscle elsewhere.<\/p>\n
Crucially, the geopolitical chessboard saw significant moves from Finland and Sweden, both countries bordering the Baltic Sea.<\/p>\n
In response to the changing security landscape, Finland sought and gained NATO membership.<\/p>\n
Don’t miss… <\/strong> We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n Sweden, although facing some hurdles, is also on the path to joining the alliance. These developments effectively extended NATO’s presence along most Baltic Sea borders, making it exceedingly difficult for Russia to block Western reinforcements through maritime routes.<\/p>\n This expansion of NATO membership not only bolstered the alliance’s strength but also reduced the likelihood of any Russian military ventures in the Suwa\u0142ki Gap.<\/p>\n Russia’s attention and military resources remain concentrated in Ukraine, leaving little room for additional large-scale military operations.<\/p>\n
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