NATO Border with Russia Doubled by Finland's Accession
Finland's membership in NATO doubles the length of the alliance's border with Russia, strengthening its eastern flank while the war in Ukraine continues without a resolution.
Finnish Foreign Minister Completes Accession Process
Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto completed the accession process by handing over an official document to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at NATO's headquarters.
NATO Secretary-General Welcomes Finland to Alliance
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Finland to the alliance, stating that war has returned to Europe and that Finland has chosen to join NATO to be part of the world's most successful alliance.
Russia Increases Military Capacity Following Finland's NATO Membership
Russia announced plans to strengthen its military capacity in its western and northwestern regions in response to Finland's NATO membership. Moscow warned that the conflict in Ukraine could escalate further due to Finland's accession.
End of Finland's Military Non-Alignment
Finland's NATO membership marks the end of an era of military non-alignment, which began after the country repelled an invasion attempt by the Soviet Union during World War Two and sought to maintain friendly relations with neighboring Russia.
Ukraine Hails Finland's NATO Accession
The Ukrainian government praised Finland's move to join NATO, with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak stating that NATO is also a key goal for Ukraine.
Moscow Criticizes NATO Expansion
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized the NATO expansion, claiming it infringes on Russia's security and national interests. Moscow will closely monitor any NATO military deployments in Finland.
Finland's Military Capabilities Benefit NATO
Finland's accession brings significant military capabilities to NATO, as it is one of the few European countries to have maintained a conscription army focused on repelling any Russian attack.
Sweden Awaits NATO Membership Approval
Finland and Sweden applied together to join NATO last year, but Sweden's application has been delayed by NATO members Turkey and Hungary. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias
