Finland intensifies military bond with US amid Russian threat following NATO induction
The agreement on defense collaboration signifies the strengthening bond between Finland and the United States. This includes mutual military training and amplified military cooperation following Finland's admittance to the North Atlantic Alliance in April.
7:56 AM EST, December 19, 2023
During the agreement signing in Washington, Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen, along with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, underscored the strong commitment of the United States to defend both Finland and Northern Europe as a whole.
Hakkanen emphasized that, while the U.S. aid is invaluable, Finland does not rely solely on the United States for defense. The country continues to bolster its own defense capabilities and shares responsibilities within and beyond its borders.
Hakkanen also highlighted in Washington that the signed agreement significantly boosts the capability of both nations to collaborate in various scenarios, thereby making their cooperation more effective.
As part of the agreement, the U.S. will have the ability to utilize up to 15 facilities on Finnish soil. Their military will have unrestricted access and the ability to store military equipment and ammunition. Finnish authorities have posited that this pact enhances Finland's security by permitting the presence and training of U.S. forces along with the preliminary deployment of defense materials on Finnish soil.
However, Hakkanen also confirmed that the agreement does not override Finnish law, which bans the storage and transportation of nuclear weapons on Finnish territory.
