Finland has officially joined NATO, marking a significant shift in the security landscape of Europe. The country’s accession to the alliance, one of the fastest in NATO’s history, comes in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and signifies an end to Finland’s long-standing policy of military non-alignment. This move adds a considerable border with Russia to NATO’s territory, as well as a substantial military force, and represents a strategic challenge to Russian interests in the region.
- Finland is now an official member of NATO, concluding one of the fastest accession processes the alliance has seen.
- The nation decided to join NATO in response to Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine in February 2022, abandoning its policy of military non-alignment.
- Finland’s NATO membership extends the alliance’s border with Russia by over 800 miles and enhances operational capabilities from the Baltic Sea to the Arctic.
- The strategic location of Finland brings NATO closer to the Kola Peninsula, a region of great importance to Russia due to its nuclear capabilities.
- Finland contributes a strong military presence to NATO, with the ability to mobilize over 800,000 troops and recent modernizations including surface-to-air missiles, rocket systems, and F-35 jets from the US.
- The Finnish public’s opinion shifted dramatically in favor of NATO membership following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, from 30% in January 2022 to 76% in May 2022.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intentions to divide NATO have backfired, leading to a more united Western front as Finland joins the alliance.
- Russia perceives NATO’s enlargement with Finland’s inclusion as a security threat and a challenge to its national interests.
- Finland’s membership came after overcoming diplomatic hurdles with Turkey, which had concerns over alleged connections between Finland, Sweden, and Kurdish militant groups.
- While Finland has been accepted into NATO, Sweden is still waiting for approval to join the alliance.
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