Nordic nations boost defense amid Russian threat concerns

          
• The Nordic countries are raising their defense budgets in response to the threat from Russia.
• The Prime Minister of Finland emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation.
• Sweden plans to increase its defense budget to 3.5% of its GDP.

During an informal meeting of the Nordic Council of Ministers in Paimio, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo announced that the Nordic countries will be increasing their defense budgets. This decision arises from perceiving Russia as a long-term military threat to their region and all of Europe.

The heads of government of the Nordic countries condemned the recent Russian attacks on Ukraine. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere criticized Russia's actions, emphasizing that "Putin speaks of peace during the day and resorts to terror at night." Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen noted that support for Ukraine must continue.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced that Sweden is considering increasing its defense budget to 3.5% of its GDP. He also emphasized the need for closer cooperation with like-minded countries, such as Germany and Poland.

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo highlighted the strength, resilience, and readiness of the Nordic countries. He underlined the need for collaboration both within NATO and across the broader region. As Finland holds the current presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers, the guiding theme for the year is a united and strong Scandinavia.

During the meeting, the leaders discussed challenges related to potential crises, which may arise from military confrontations and hybrid situations or extreme weather conditions. The Prime Minister of Norway assured Denmark and Greenland of their solidarity, especially regarding pressure on local communities.