An expansion of the military alliance would fundamentally alter the security landscape of northern Europe and give NATO an edge over Russia
Finland and Sweden formally applied for NATO membership on Wednesday, a move that, if approved, would fundamentally transform the security landscape of Northern Europe and give the alliance a valuable edge against Russia following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
The two Nordic countries’ bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization breaks with a decadeslong defense doctrine that has seen them balance political and security partnerships with other Western nations while staying out of formal military alliances.
Finnish Ambassador to NATO Klaus Korhonen and his Swedish counterpart Axel Wernhoff personally handed the applications to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Brussels on Wednesday morning, according to live footage broadcast on Finnish television.
“This is a good day at a critical moment for our security. Thank you so much for handing over the applications for Finland and Sweden’s membership in NATO,” Mr Stoltenberg said.
Every nation has the right to choose its own path. You have both made your choice after thorough democratic process and I warmly welcome the requests by Finland and Sweden to join NATO.”
The announcement was expected after the Finnish and Swedish ruling parties over the weekend gave their support for NATO applications, capping weeks of swift political decision making and a significant pivot in public opinion among Finns and Swedes who now overwhelmingly support joining the alliance, hoping such a move will deter Russia from any aggression on their soil……