Nordic States into NATO
Russia´s Invasion of Ukraine has changed the policy of some countries
The Finnish Prime Minister, Sanna Marin, and the Finnish President, Saul Sinnistro, announced this Thursday they supported their country joining NATO. They saw it as an option for safeguarding their national security. In order for them to join the Transatlantic Alliance, the Finnish Parliament, or Eduskunta, must first approve this.
There has been an increase of support among the Finnish citizenship for joining NATO since Russia invaded Ukraine in February. Back in 2021, 40% of them opposed, and 26% favored joining. After the war began, 70% supported joining NATO. Meanwhile, a poll revealed that in Sweden, 42% of the citizens supported entering, against 37% that didn’t.
Finland´s decision has not pleased Moscow, who has already threatened with “technical-military measures” if it happens. Russia´s foreign ministry called for Helsinki to be “aware of the responsibility and consequences for such a move”. Putin cited stopping NATO expansion as a national interest for his Ukraine´s movements in February.
A top Finnish Defense Officer has mentioned his country is preparing for consequences shall Russia take reprisals. Great Britain has promised for protection, including military assistance, should Russia take retaliatory measures
Sweden is also expected to apply for NATO´s membership. NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, said Finland would be “warmly welcome” in the military alliance. He promised a “smooth and swift” accession process. The White House echoed similar claims.
The process is expected to be completed in June at the Great NATO Summit.
Guillermo is a journalist, writer and independent international analyst. If you like what you read, please support him by donating:
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