Finland lifts ban on nuclear weapons amid rising security risks
Kyiv • UNN
The Finnish Parliament has authorized the import and possession of nuclear weapons for defense purposes. The country is strengthening its deterrence due to threats and integration into NATO.
Finland has passed a law lifting the ban on nuclear weapons, marking a significant shift for the Nordic country amid its deepening integration with the NATO defense alliance. This was reported by Bloomberg, according to UNN.
Details
On Wednesday, lawmakers voted 125 to 61 in favor of a bill that allows the import, transportation, supply, and possession of nuclear weapons on Finnish territory if necessary for national defense. At the same time, the government stated that the aim of the changes is to strengthen deterrence in a more unpredictable security environment, but emphasized that Finland has no plans to station nuclear weapons on its territory.
"With this proposal, we are strengthening Finland's defense and ensuring the full utilization of NATO's nuclear deterrence for the protection of Finland," Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen stated on social media platform X, calling the decision "critically important for Finland's security."
The legislative changes bring Finland's nuclear weapons regulations closer to the norms of other NATO countries following the state's accession to the alliance in 2023 in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
European governments are reviewing deterrence policies amid uncertainty regarding Russia's intentions and doubts about the long-term reliability of U.S. security guarantees. Although President Donald Trump has not stated a possible end to U.S. nuclear protection, doubts about Washington's future commitments have prompted some countries to strengthen their own defenses.
Finland is also considering joining French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative to extend French nuclear deterrence to Europe. A decision on this matter in Helsinki is expected in the fall.
The vote in the Finnish parliament followed a sharp debate. Some opposition parties criticized the government, stating that it failed to ensure a broad parliamentary consensus, which is usually considered necessary for decisions in the field of foreign and security policy.
US in talks to expand "nuclear umbrella" in Europe - FT02.06.26, 10:57 • 42879 views