Finnish President Alexander Stubb recently stated that joining the NATO alliance has transformed Finland into a “front-line state,” as it has doubled the military bloc’s border with Russia. Finland, which became the 31st NATO member in April 2023, shares a 1,340-kilometer (832-mile) land border with Russia, running through thick forests in the south and rugged Arctic landscapes in the north. This change in stance happened after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, leading both Finland and Sweden to abandon their long-standing policy of neutrality and join NATO. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also emphasized the shared future and history between the two countries, with Sweden becoming the 32nd NATO member in March.
Finland has a complex history, having been a part of the Kingdom of Sweden for nearly 700 years until it was ceded to the Russian Empire in 1809 during Europe’s Napoleonic Wars. The country declared its independence from Russia in 1917 amid the Russian Revolution, marking a significant turning point in its national identity. Finnish President Stubb, who was elected in February, sees NATO membership as the final step in adopting Western values for both Finland and Sweden. Both countries joined the European Union in 1995, further solidifying their ties to the Western community. Stubb stressed the importance of promoting peace even as they strengthen their military capabilities by joining NATO.
During his visit to Sweden, President Stubb highlighted the role that Finland and Sweden play in promoting peace and stability in the region. He emphasized the paradox of needing a strong military to achieve peace and security, underscoring the decision to join NATO. Stubb addressed the Swedish parliament in Swedish, the second official language of Finland, expressing the significance of the two countries taking this step together. Unlike most European countries, the president of Finland holds executive power in formulating foreign and security policy, particularly concerning nations outside the EU like the United States, Russia, and China.
President Stubb’s visit to Sweden marked his first state visit abroad, where he was warmly received by Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia among others. This visit signifies the strengthened ties between the two Nordic countries as they navigate increasingly complex geopolitical challenges. Finland’s shift from neutrality to NATO membership reflects a broader trend in the region, with several countries aligning with Western alliances in response to Russian aggression in the region. Stubb’s emphasis on the importance of promoting peace while having a strong military underscores the delicate balance that Finland and Sweden seek to maintain in their foreign policy approach. The partnership between Finland and Sweden in joining NATO signifies a strategic alignment with Western values and security interests.
