After the fierce criticism from the opposition she faced following her Reuters interview in which she noted it’s very unlikely that Finland would apply for a NATO membership during her term in office, Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin was forced to defend her stand.
Being accused of playing directly into the hands of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin by ruling out a certain time period during which an application could take place, Marin described her comments as realistic and well as over-interpreted.
She reiterated that Finland has the right to join NATO if and when it decides and no one can influence it one way or another, and also noted that the country would also support and stand by tough sanctions for Russia – that would be tough and would have a very substantial impact- if and when needed.
Amidst complaints that she has narrowed down the room for quick maneuvers while failing to consult the president, Marin emphasized the importance of a thorough parliamentary discussion over NATO between parties.
Finland’s constitutional foreign policy stance allows the country to activate NATO membership procedures at any given time if circumstances necessitate it while there’s also widely accepted in the country that a referendum should precede a NATO application.
Finland, which shares a 1,340 km border and a difficult history with Russia – including clashing during World War Two- has so far opted to only cooperate with NATO instead of joining it.
However, recent polls show that for the first time, fewer than half (42%) of the Finish citizens oppose NATO membership while 28% expressed readiness to join the Western military alliance.
President Biden has talked to Finland’s President Sauli Niinisto on Tuesday – the second time in a month – to discuss the importance of Finland’s close defense partnership with the US and NATO.
The next general elections in Finland will take place in the spring of 2023.
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