The elements that influence the dynamics of the world order include the resolve of the United States to maintain its primacy, Russia’s ambition to regain a strategic balance with the United States as well as China’s aim to achieve a political status which corresponds to its economic power in Asia and globally. The European Union strives to strengthen its global role. Emerging nations across the continents want to have the global status they consider justified. The Nordic social model has international appeal, and it provides a sound foundation for the ever-strengthening Nordic cooperation in international politics. Changes in the international security environment, the return of Russia to thinking in terms of power politics, including its internal development, the growth of its military potential and increasing military activity challenge the very foundations of the European security regime and create instability in Finland’s operating environment. 4.2 The situation in Finland’s vicinity During the past decades the foundation of the security system in our neighbourhood has been cooperation that was based on the principles of shared security as well as arms reduction treaties and confidence-building measures. During the past ten years or so Russia, through its actions and interpretations, has challenged the essence of the security regime to an extent, and has destabilised it. The West and Russia have very different opinions on how to restore stability to the security regime. The security of Europe and the Baltic Sea region has deteriorated. Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula and created the crisis in eastern Ukraine. A vicious circle has evolved, resulting in increased tension and military activity in the Baltic Sea region. In recent years Russia has also increased its military footprint and activity in the Arctic, where the situation, so far, has remained relatively stable. Russia uses a wide range of military and non-military instruments in advancing its interests. The security policy environment of Finland, a member of the western community, has transformed. A more tense security situation in Europe and the Baltic Sea region will directly impact Finland. The use or threat of military force against Finland cannot be excluded. 11