Switzerland is strengthening militarily, too much snow in Russia, not enough in Austria

Switzerland is pulling out all the stops on its military budget. After years of lean times and even a suspicion of insolvency, the Swiss army has strengthened itself like never before in 30 years. The response to Russian threats and the war in Ukraine. “We need to fill many gaps in the army’s capabilities, particularly with regard to ground troops”, declared Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation. Nearly 5 billion euros will be released this year, for a total of 27 billion in 4 years. A considerable effort at a time when all other budgets have been cut.

Snow shortage in Austria, abundance in Russia

In Austria, snow is sorely lacking. The tracks are very bare. Only a few ski hikers are still visible on the mountain. “For three weeks, we have had positive temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C during the day and no frost at night”, deplores Franz Pendi, director of the Abtenauer Bergbahnen ski area. Since February 10, the snow cannons and ski lifts have been stopped.

In Russia, on the other hand, snow fell in abundance. Mayhem in Moscow where traffic is disrupted. Roads officials are overwhelmed: “We have to clear snow every ten minutes and it’s been happening since the beginning of the day”. More than 150,000 people are on deck to restore mobility to Muscovites.