Finland's Parliament voted overwhelmingly to approve its application to join NATO, shoring up the trans-Atlantic alliance as Russia continues its assault on non-NATO state Ukraine, Prime Minister Sanna Marin announced Tuesday.
Of the 200 lawmakers, 188 voted in favor and eight voted against the application after Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced the country's intention to apply for NATO membership, the prime minister, who favors joining NATO, said.
"The long and stable line of foreign and security policy, which seeks consensus, is still in place today," Marin tweeted after the vote, according to a translation.The decision was contingent on Parliament's approval, setting the stage for Finland to finalize its application. Finland's neighbors have also made moves to join the international alliance amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. On Monday, Sweden announced its intent to apply for NATO membership, breaking from nearly 200 years of military nonalignment.
Both countries' applications for membership will require all 30 member states to"accede" through unanimous agreement. The Biden administration has previously said it would welcome Finland's and Sweden's applications to join the NATO alliance.
Putin's acquiescence marks a reversal from last Thursday, when Russia's foreign ministry warned it would"be forced" to take retaliatory actions if Finland joins NATO.
Norge Siste Nytt, Norge Overskrifter
Similar News:Du kan også lese nyheter som ligner på denne som vi har samlet inn fra andre nyhetskilder.
From Neutral to NATO: Finnish Ambassador to US on why Finland wants to Join NATOThe Russians should not be surprised that Finland now wants to join NATO after Russia invaded Ukraine
Les mer »
Soldiers Evacuated From Besieged Mariupol Steelworks; Turkey Could Block NATO Bids From Finland, SwedenMore than 260 Ukrainian fighters, including some who are badly wounded, have been evacuated from a steel plant in the ruined city of Mariupol.
Les mer »
Why Finland Joining NATO Is More Shocking Than Anyone RealizesPutin's tenure is likely to be viewed as a disaster for Russian security, the steepest setback since the shattering of the Soviet Union.
Les mer »
Turkey Lays Out Demands as Finland, Sweden Plan NATO EntryStockholm said that senior officials from Sweden, Finland and Turkey will meet in Ankara to discuss the matter.
Les mer »
Turkey objects to Sweden, Finland joining NATOTurkey´s president on Monday complicated Sweden and Finland´s historic bid to join NATO, saying he cannot allow them to become members of the alliance because of their perceived inaction against exiled Kurdish militants.
Les mer »
Biden to meet leaders of Finland, Sweden to discuss NATO applicationsThe additions would dramatically change Europe's security landscape.
Les mer »