Finland is starting a debate that could result in the country applying for NATO membership within a few weeks.
Russia’s attack on Ukraine keeps the whole of Europe in suspense. European countries, which had previously formally adhered to neutrality, thought about guarantees of their own security. In particular, there have been active talks about Finland and Sweden’s participation in NATO.
Society for
Over the past six months, Finnish support for NATO membership has risen to a record level, while until recently supporters of membership were in the minority. 84% of Finns see Russia as a military threat.
“Everything changed when Russia invaded Ukraine. The opinions of the people in Finland and also in Sweden changed significantly because of Russia’s actions. It was very clear. And this led to a discussion about our choice in security terms, regarding NATO membership ”Marin said.
He said the government was presenting Parliament today with a document examining various security options for Finland in the future, after which there would be a debate.
“I’m not going to give any timeline when we’re going to make a decision. But I think it’s going to happen quickly, in weeks, not months. In the coming weeks,” Marin said.
He stressed that Finland needs a broader consensus among parties and political groups in parliament on NATO membership “because we have neighbors like Russia.” “We use this time to analyze and create a common position on future security,” he added.
Marin also noted that in the process of considering the decision, there are many risks associated with Russia’s actions. “And when we submitted the report to parliament, we also examined these risks: hybrid threats, cyber attacks, attempts to influence in different areas. But we should not be afraid to make decisions. , “said the prime minister.
Application in June
Both Finland and possibly the Czech Republic could apply for NATO membership as early as the end of June, at the alliance’s summit in Madrid.
“This is a very important time in history. Today there is before and after February 24. The security situation has completely changed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. And now we will really think about what is best for Sweden and the our security in this situation.. We are having a discussion between the parties in the Swedish Parliament and within my party. We take this situation seriously and then we will make a decision, “Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson told a press conference with Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin.
There is disagreement between the parties in the Swedish parliament over how many votes will be needed to support an application for NATO membership. The moderate party believes that a simple majority, that is, more than 50% of the vote, is enough. Social Democrats, on the contrary, believe this measure should win 75% of the votes in Riksdag. In Sweden, a parliamentary majority could be formed for joining NATO if Finland decides to join the Alliance.
Russia’s reaction
Russian President Dmitry Peskov’s Press Secretary said that Sweden and Finland’s intentions to join NATO would not bring security to the European region.
“By itself, the Alliance is rather a tool being honed for confrontation. It is not the Alliance that ensures peace and stability. Further expansion of the Alliance will not bring additional security to the continent of Europe,” Peskov said. .
On the Karelian Isthmus near the Finnish border, they noticed the movement of two pieces of equipment, similar to the Bastion coastal missile system. Journalists noticed it was an “unconfirmed video.” At the same time, there are no glue in it and a road sign indicating the route to Helsinki A-181 is clearly visible.
True, the Pentagon has no visible evidence that Russia has begun shifting weapons to the Finnish border.
Source: korrespondent
