In the midst of the Russia-Ukraine war, a big news has come to the fore. Finland is going to officially join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization ‘NATO’ on Tuesday. Finland’s entry will make it the 31st member of this military alliance. This news is like a shock for Russia as it sees NATO expansion as a direct threat to its security. This article explores Finland’s entry into NATO, its significance, and Russia’s response to this development.
Finland Joins NATO
On April 5, 2023, Finland will officially become a member of NATO. The ceremony to mark the occasion will take place at NATO headquarters in Brussels, where Finland’s blue-and-white flag will be raised alongside those of other member states. The Finnish President, Foreign Minister, and Defense Minister will participate in the program. The meeting of foreign ministers of the coalition will also be held on this day.
Finland’s application to join NATO was prompted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year, which raised concerns about the security of Finland and other neighboring countries. Finland shares a 1,340-kilometre (832 mi) border with Russia, making it more vulnerable to Russian aggression. By joining NATO, Finland hopes to strengthen its defense and security posture and send a strong signal to Russia that it will not tolerate any aggression.
Significance of Finland’s Entry into NATO
Finland’s entry into NATO is significant for several reasons. First, it expands NATO’s influence and reach into Northern Europe, which has traditionally been outside the alliance’s sphere of influence. Second, it strengthens NATO’s collective defense capabilities by adding another member with a well-trained and well-equipped military. Third, it sends a clear message to Russia that NATO is not afraid to stand up to its aggression and that it will defend its members’ territorial integrity and security.
For Finland, joining NATO is a strategic move that will enhance its security and provide it with access to NATO’s military resources and expertise. It will also help Finland deepen its defense cooperation with other member states and strengthen its ties with the West. Finland’s entry into NATO is a significant step in its foreign policy, which has traditionally been based on neutrality and non-alignment.
Russia’s Response
Russia has long been wary of NATO expansion, which it sees as a direct threat to its security. The prospect of Finland joining NATO has been particularly concerning for Russia, given the long border it shares with Finland. Russia has warned Finland that it will strengthen its defense system near the Finnish border if NATO deploys additional troops or equipment on the territory of its 31st member state.
Russia’s response to Finland’s entry into NATO is likely to be a mix of diplomatic and military measures. Russia may increase its military presence near the Finnish border and conduct more military exercises in the region. It may also step up its propaganda efforts to undermine Finland’s decision to join NATO and portray it as a hostile act against Russia.
