Finland becomes the 31st member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
In the midst of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, the security landscape in Europe has undergone a historic change. Despite Russia’s displeasure, Finland became the 31st member of NATO on Tuesday. After Finland joined NATO, now the border of NATO countries with Russia has almost doubled as compared to before. Finland has a long border of about 1300 kilometers which is adjacent to Russia. In such a situation, it can be a cause of concern for Russia amidst the ongoing tension with Ukraine. Earlier, Finland was approved to become a member of NATO in the Parliament of Turkey on Thursday.
It was welcomed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. He said that earlier we did not think that Finland would become our member. But now they will be full members of our alliance. It is indeed historical. However, the Kremlin has called the move an “attack” on Russia’s security and national interests. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was an attack on Russia’s security. After this step, ‘we will be forced to take countermeasures from a tactical and strategic point of view.’
Earlier, Stoltenberg said on the eve of the meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels that ‘from tomorrow Finland will become a full member of NATO. The joining of Finland will strengthen the intergovernmental military alliance.’ He added that NATO hopes to welcome Sweden as a full member soon.
After Russia attacked Ukraine last year, the security scenario of Europe had suddenly changed. Moscow’s move prompted Finland and its neighbor Sweden to abandon decades of military non-alignment.
