Three people shot dead in Marseille as France cracks down on narco gangs & angry Sudanese protesters paralyse Khartoum as the military again postpones transition to democracy. Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in World At War.

World at War | Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles

April 4, 2023, turned out to be a "great day" for Finland as it became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Helsinki's journey to becoming the 31st member of the crucial security alliance was completed with the hoisting of Finland's blue-and-white Nordic cross flag at NATO's headquarters.&nbsp;

Finland is now under NATO's security blanket and the alliance will also get a crucial and reliable ally. President Sauli Niinisto claimed that joining the defence alliance is a new era for his country.&nbsp;

Niinisto said, "It is a great day for Finland. Security and stability are those elements which we feel very strongly; if people can live in secure stable circumstances, that are the basic elements of a happy life."&nbsp;

The Finnish presidency said in a statement that "each country maximises its own security. So does Finland. At the same time, NATO membership strengthens our international position and room for manoeuvre." The statement also mentioned that in the future, Finland will contribute to NATO's collective "deterrence and defence".&nbsp;

<h2>Is Finland joining NATO a direct threat to Russia?&nbsp;</h2>

Analysts and experts from the West said that Finland joining NATO is a major blow to Russia. Moscow began Ukraine's invasion last year in February, which President Vladimir Putin calls a "special military operation", but the war prompted Finland to apply for NATO membership, along with Sweden. Finland's bid was historic because of its decades-old policy of military non-alignment.&nbsp;

Several concerns were raised over more possible invasions by Moscow after Ukraine in future. But any military attack on Finland will definitely get escalated as becoming a NATO member puts Finland under the alliance's Article Five, the collective defence pledge that an attack on one member "shall be considered an attack against them all".&nbsp;

After taking Helsinki into the camp, NATO doubled the length of its land border with Russia as Finland shares a 1,300-kilometre-long border with its neighbour. Moscow now has the West and its military forces closer to its border than before.&nbsp;

A response is expected in one way or another because Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "this forces us to take countermeasures... in tactical and strategic terms".&nbsp;

But in an immediate reaction, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said the nation will make the countermeasures public in a calm manner and in due time.&nbsp;

"We don't want to get ahead of ourselves here. Why should we? We will calmly disclose what we will do in response when the time is ripe," said Ryabkov, further adding that the West is "deeply mistaken" and "a reaction will follow". &nbsp;

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said that NATO's move to increase its own combat readiness has escalated the risk of conflict. Shoigu said that the West is intensifying combat training and reconnaissance activities near the borders of Russia and Belarus and all this creates the risk&nbsp;of a "significant escalation" of the conflict. He also stressed that the move will not affect the outcome of the "special military operation".&nbsp;

Putin has often warned the West that NATO's expansion would be seen as aggression towards Russia and would justify the invasion.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg described Finland's membership as a proud day for both—him and the alliance. He said, "This will make Finland safer and NATO&nbsp;stronger. President Putin had a declared goal of the invasion of Ukraine to get less NATO&nbsp;along its borders and no more membership in Europe, he's getting exactly the opposite."&nbsp;

<h2>What Finland will provide to NATO?&nbsp;</h2>

Finland was invaded by the Soviet Union in 1939 and it stayed out of NATO throughout the Cold War and also adopted neutrality in World War II. But its recent NATO membership portrays a significant change in Europe's political landscape.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
As mentioned, Finland will now help NATO allies to keep a watch on Russian activities as its strategic location boosts defences on a border running from the vulnerable Baltic states to the increasingly competitive Arctic.&nbsp;

NATO&nbsp;will now have seven members on the Baltic Sea, further isolating Russia's coastal access to St Petersburg and its small exclave of Kaliningrad.

Its membership also brings a potent military into the alliance with a wartime strength of 280,000 and one of Europe's largest artillery arsenals.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened to Sweden's bid?&nbsp;</h2>

Stockholm also applied for NATO membership along with Finland, but its bid has been stalled. Sweden has upset Hungary's leader Viktor Orban, one of Putin's closest allies in Europe, by expressing alarm over the rule of law in Hungary.&nbsp;

Turkey is also angry with it because of refusing to extradite "terrorists" upon Turkish request. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan links them to a failed 2016 coup attempt and the Kurdish independence struggle.&nbsp;

Also, analysts have said that they do not expect Turkey to ratify Sweden's application until after Turkey's May 14 election.

Not just Sweden, Ukraine is also pushing for eventual NATO membership. However, Western diplomats say that remains a distant prospect.&nbsp;

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said,&nbsp;"There is no better strategic solution to ensuring strategic security in the Euro-Atlantic region than the membership of Ukraine in the alliance."&nbsp;

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April 4, 2023, turned out to be a "great day" for Finland as it became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Helsinki's journey to becoming the 31st member of the crucial security alliance was completed with the hoisting of Finland's blue-and-white Nordic cross flag at NATO's headquarters.

April 4, 2023, turned out to be a "great day" for Finland as it became a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Helsinki's journey to becoming the 31st member of the crucial security alliance was completed with the hoisting of Finland's blue-and-white Nordic cross flag at NATO's headquarters. Finland is now under NATO's security blanket and the alliance will also get a crucial and reliable ally. President Sauli Niinisto claimed that joining the defence alliance is a new era for his country. Niinisto said, "It is a great day for Finland. Security and stability are those elements which we feel very strongly; if people can live in secure stable circumstances, that are the basic elements of a happy life." The Finnish presidency said in a statement that "each country maximises its own security. So does Finland. At the same time, NATO membership strengthens our international position and room for manoeuvre." The statement also mentioned that in the future, Finland will contribute to NATO's collective "deterrence and defence". Is Finland joining NATO a direct threat to Russia? Analysts and experts from the West said that Finland joining NATO is a major blow to Russia. Moscow began Ukraine's invasion last year in February, which President Vladimir Putin calls a "special military operation", but the war prompted Finland to apply for NATO membership, along with Sweden. Finland's bid was historic because of its decades-old policy of military non-alignment. Several concerns were raised over more possible invasions by Moscow after Ukraine in future. But any military attack on Finland will definitely get escalated as becoming a NATO member puts Finland under the alliance's Article Five, the collective defence pledge that an attack on one member "shall be considered an attack against them all". After taking Helsinki into the camp, NATO doubled the length of its land border with Russia as Finland shares a 1,300-kilometre-long border with its neighbour. Moscow now has the West and its military forces closer to its border than before. A response is expected in one way or another because Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "this forces us to take countermeasures... in tactical and strategic terms". But in an immediate reaction, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said the nation will make the countermeasures public in a calm manner and in due time. "We don't want to get ahead of ourselves here. Why should we? We will calmly disclose what we will do in response when the time is ripe," said Ryabkov, further adding that the West is "deeply mistaken" and "a reaction will follow". Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said that NATO's move to increase its own combat readiness has escalated the risk of conflict. Shoigu said that the West is intensifying combat training and reconnaissance activities near the borders of Russia and Belarus and all this creates the risk of a "significant escalation" of the conflict. He also stressed that the move will not affect the outcome of the "special military operation". Putin has often warned the West that NATO's expansion would be seen as aggression towards Russia and would justify the invasion. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg described Finland's membership as a proud day for both—him and the alliance. He said, "This will make Finland safer and NATO stronger. President Putin had a declared goal of the invasion of Ukraine to get less NATO along its borders and no more membership in Europe, he's getting exactly the opposite." What Finland will provide to NATO? Finland was invaded by the Soviet Union in 1939 and it stayed out of NATO throughout the Cold War and also adopted neutrality in World War II. But its recent NATO membership portrays a significant change in Europe's political landscape. As mentioned, Finland will now help NATO allies to keep a watch on Russian activities as its strategic location boosts defences on a border running from the vulnerable Baltic states to the increasingly competitive Arctic. NATO will now have seven members on the Baltic Sea, further isolating Russia's coastal access to St Petersburg and its small exclave of Kaliningrad. Its membership also brings a potent military into the alliance with a wartime strength of 280,000 and one of Europe's largest artillery arsenals. What happened to Sweden's bid? Stockholm also applied for NATO membership along with Finland, but its bid has been stalled. Sweden has upset Hungary's leader Viktor Orban, one of Putin's closest allies in Europe, by expressing alarm over the rule of law in Hungary. Turkey is also angry with it because of refusing to extradite "terrorists" upon Turkish request. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan links them to a failed 2016 coup attempt and the Kurdish independence struggle. Also, analysts have said that they do not expect Turkey to ratify Sweden's application until after Turkey's May 14 election. Not just Sweden, Ukraine is also pushing for eventual NATO membership. However, Western diplomats say that remains a distant prospect. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said, "There is no better strategic solution to ensuring strategic security in the Euro-Atlantic region than the membership of Ukraine in the alliance." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Finland is now a NATO member. Is it a direct threat to Russia?

Finland has become the 31st member of the Nato security alliance, and its flag will soon be raised at the alliance's headquarters. The Finnish foreign minister handed the accession document to the US secretary of state who declared Finland a member.

Finland now under the NATO cover, will Sweden join soon?

Sanna Marin, the outgoing prime minister of Finland, said on Wednesday that she would step down as the head of the Social Democratic Party at the upcoming party congress in the fall.&nbsp;She expressed the hope that doing so would allow her “to open a new page in my own life.”&nbsp;

“Now is the time to get in line again and leave the chairman's place,” Marin, said during a news conference in Helsinki. She said she would continue working as a lawmaker in Parliament.

Marin's hopes&nbsp;of continuing as prime minister were dashed when the Social Democratic Party finished third in the election on Sunday, as reported by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

In an extraordinarily close three-way fight, Finland's biggest conservative party emerged victorious, with right-wing populists coming in second.

Marin, who has been in the position of prime minister since 2019, enjoys huge&nbsp;popularity both at home and abroad, but she recognised that it had been difficult for her personally.

“My endurance has been put to the test,”&nbsp;Marin admitted.

She claimed that her Cabinet has&nbsp;had some testing&nbsp;times in recent years and that the centre-left government had been forced to make difficult choices.

Marin has received praise&nbsp;for guiding Finland through the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting the nation's NATO bid alongside President Sauli Niinistö, and being a steadfast backer of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, among other things.

“These have been exceptionally difficult years and difficult times,” Marin said, “Now that the election result is like this, I consider that I have the opportunity to open a new page in my own life.”

Thursday will mark the formal resignation of Marin's cabinet. Next week, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the National Coalition Party, will lead negotiations to create a new government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sanna Marin, the outgoing prime minister of Finland, said on Wednesday that she would step down as the head of the Social Democratic Party at the upcoming party congress in the fall.

Sanna Marin, the outgoing prime minister of Finland, said on Wednesday that she would step down as the head of the Social Democratic Party at the upcoming party congress in the fall. She expressed the hope that doing so would allow her “to open a new page in my own life.” “Now is the time to get in line again and leave the chairman's place,” Marin, said during a news conference in Helsinki. She said she would continue working as a lawmaker in Parliament. Marin's hopes of continuing as prime minister were dashed when the Social Democratic Party finished third in the election on Sunday, as reported by the Associated Press. In an extraordinarily close three-way fight, Finland's biggest conservative party emerged victorious, with right-wing populists coming in second. Marin, who has been in the position of prime minister since 2019, enjoys huge popularity both at home and abroad, but she recognised that it had been difficult for her personally. “My endurance has been put to the test,” Marin admitted. She claimed that her Cabinet has had some testing times in recent years and that the centre-left government had been forced to make difficult choices. Marin has received praise for guiding Finland through the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting the nation's NATO bid alongside President Sauli Niinistö, and being a steadfast backer of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, among other things. “These have been exceptionally difficult years and difficult times,” Marin said, “Now that the election result is like this, I consider that I have the opportunity to open a new page in my own life.” Thursday will mark the formal resignation of Marin's cabinet. Next week, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the National Coalition Party, will lead negotiations to create a new government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Finland's outgoing PM Sanna Marin steps down as party leader

Finland has become the 31st member of the NATO security alliance marking a major shift in the security landscape in north-eastern Europe what is the significance of Finland joining NATO and what kind of ramifications will it have on the ongoing war in Ukraine? We decode in this episode.

Finland joins NATO as 31st ally | World News | WION

The Finnish president's office said that Finland would officially become a member of NATO on Tuesday. The news was confirmed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, "tomorrow we will welcome Finland as the 31st member." He told reporters it would be "a historic and great day for NATO and for Finland.

Finland to become 31st NATO member on April 4

Finland joins NATO, dealing blow to Russia for Ukraine war

Finland formally joined the NATO military alliance on Tuesday in a historic policy shift brought on by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, drawing a threat from Moscow of "countermeasures".

Finland joins NATO, Russia warns of counter-measures

The head of Finland's right-wing opposition National Coalition Party, Petteri Orpo, declared victory in the closely contested parliamentary vote on Sunday. Orpo addressed his followers and declared, "We got the biggest mandate." According to election statistics from the justice ministry, his party appeared to be on track to win the most seats in parliament, 48 out of a total of 200, with 20.5% of the vote.

Finland General Elections 2023: Leader of National Coalition Party Petteri Orpo claims victory

Finland's prime minister Sanna Marin has conceded defeat in the election as right-wing opposition National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo on Sunday (April 2) claimed victory in the parliamentary election.&nbsp;

Orpo's party looked set to get the most seats in parliament, 48 out of 200 in total, with almost all votes counted on Sunday. Justice ministry election data showed his party will also get 20.5 per cent support among votes cast.&nbsp;

Marin hailed Social Democratic Party (SDP) improvement in both her party's vote share and its projected number of MPs as she addressed supporters and said that "it's a really good achievement, even though I didn't finish first today".&nbsp;

Marin, who in 2019 became the world's youngest premier at 34, also congratulated the election winners during her concession speech. &nbsp;

In a speech to the party workers and followers, Orpo said that "we got the biggest mandate" and mentioned that the party would now be leading the coalition talks. Meanwhile, Finns leader Riikka Purra called it an "an excellent result".&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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While speaking during the Associated Press at NCP's victory event, Orpo also mentioned the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and reiterated the stand of Finland—a nation that is vying to become a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member.&nbsp;

Orpo said, "First to Ukraine: we stand by you, with you. We cannot accept this terrible war. And we will do all that is needed to help Ukraine, Ukrainian people because they fight for us. This is clear. And the message to [Russian president Vladimir] Putin is: go away from Ukraine because you will lose."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Finland's prime minister Sanna Marin has conceded defeat in the election as right-wing opposition National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo on Sunday (April 2) claimed victory in the parliamentary election.

Finland's prime minister Sanna Marin has conceded defeat in the election as right-wing opposition National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo on Sunday (April 2) claimed victory in the parliamentary election. Orpo's party looked set to get the most seats in parliament, 48 out of 200 in total, with almost all votes counted on Sunday. Justice ministry election data showed his party will also get 20.5 per cent support among votes cast. Marin hailed Social Democratic Party (SDP) improvement in both her party's vote share and its projected number of MPs as she addressed supporters and said that "it's a really good achievement, even though I didn't finish first today". Marin, who in 2019 became the world's youngest premier at 34, also congratulated the election winners during her concession speech. In a speech to the party workers and followers, Orpo said that "we got the biggest mandate" and mentioned that the party would now be leading the coalition talks. Meanwhile, Finns leader Riikka Purra called it an "an excellent result". Watch this report: × While speaking during the Associated Press at NCP's victory event, Orpo also mentioned the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and reiterated the stand of Finland—a nation that is vying to become a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member. Orpo said, "First to Ukraine: we stand by you, with you. We cannot accept this terrible war. And we will do all that is needed to help Ukraine, Ukrainian people because they fight for us. This is clear. And the message to [Russian president Vladimir] Putin is: go away from Ukraine because you will lose." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland election: Sanna Marin concedes defeat, right-wing National Coalition Party claims victory

Voting has begun in Finland that could see a change of both the Prime Minister and the ruling coalition government. Up for grabs are about 200 seats in the Finnish Parliament and the one fighting to stay in power is Sanna Marin.

Finland polling underway; three parties running neck-to-neck in opinion polls

On Sunday, voters in Finland will go to the polls for a general election that could result in the replacement of the prime minister and the current coalition administration. 200 seats in the Finnish Parliament are also up for election.

Finland General Elections 2023: Polling to take place on Sunday

Finland General Elections 2023: Sanna Marin faces tough re-election bid | World News | WION

Apart from Finland, elections are also being held in Europe's Bulgaria and Montenegro. Polls are now open for Presidential elections in Montenegro whereas Bulgaria is holding its fifth parliamentary election in just two years.

Elections being held in Finland, Bulgaria and Montenegro

The parliamentary election in Finland is underway as incumbent Prime Minister Sanna Marin is fighting hard to secure a second term at the helm amid an extremely close race between three parties.

Finland General Elections 2023: Voting underway as Sanna Marin faces tough re-election bid

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Saturday (April 1) urged people to cast their votes for her Social Democratic Party (SDP), which according to her is a "better alternative".&nbsp;Over 2,400 candidates from 22 parties are vying for the 200 seats in the Finnish parliament, the Eduskunta.

Marin, who in 2019 became the world's youngest premier at 34, addressed people as she campaigned ahead of Sunday's election which sees three parties running neck-and-neck in opinion polls.&nbsp;

While speaking at a rally in central Helsinki, Marin said, "Tell your friends, family and relatives that now is the time to vote, now is the time to vote Social Democrats."&nbsp;

She argued that if SDP doesn't come out on top in the elections, we will see a right-wing government of the Finns and the National Coalition Party that will "pursue policies that are really unfair from the point of view of ordinary people".&nbsp;

In Finland, three parties are running neck-and-neck in opinion polls. The most recent survey shows the National Coalition leading with 19.8 per cent support, ahead of the Social Democrats and the Finns Party at 19.2 per cent each.&nbsp;At the rally, Marin told the news agency Reuters, "The situation is very tight. We have three parties that are eye-to-eye with each other. Anyone of these three parties can win tomorrow and of course we hope that we will enter first and continue our work that we have been doing for the last four years."&nbsp; 
 
Marin, one of Europe's youngest leaders, received praise for her handling of the COVID pandemic and her role&nbsp;in advocating for Finland's successful application to join NATO. Her vocal support of Ukraine increased her visibility.

Marin is fighting to stay in power as the country faces a recession.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Saturday (April 1) urged people to cast their votes for her Social Democratic Party (SDP), which according to her is a "better alternative".

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Saturday (April 1) urged people to cast their votes for her Social Democratic Party (SDP), which according to her is a "better alternative". Over 2,400 candidates from 22 parties are vying for the 200 seats in the Finnish parliament, the Eduskunta. Marin, who in 2019 became the world's youngest premier at 34, addressed people as she campaigned ahead of Sunday's election which sees three parties running neck-and-neck in opinion polls. While speaking at a rally in central Helsinki, Marin said, "Tell your friends, family and relatives that now is the time to vote, now is the time to vote Social Democrats." She argued that if SDP doesn't come out on top in the elections, we will see a right-wing government of the Finns and the National Coalition Party that will "pursue policies that are really unfair from the point of view of ordinary people". In Finland, three parties are running neck-and-neck in opinion polls. The most recent survey shows the National Coalition leading with 19.8 per cent support, ahead of the Social Democrats and the Finns Party at 19.2 per cent each. At the rally, Marin told the news agency Reuters, "The situation is very tight. We have three parties that are eye-to-eye with each other. Anyone of these three parties can win tomorrow and of course we hope that we will enter first and continue our work that we have been doing for the last four years." Marin, one of Europe's youngest leaders, received praise for her handling of the COVID pandemic and her role in advocating for Finland's successful application to join NATO. Her vocal support of Ukraine increased her visibility. Marin is fighting to stay in power as the country faces a recession. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland votes: PM Sanna Marin faces tough election battle in bid for second term

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Turkish parliament ratifies Finland's NATO membership

Finland General Elections 2023: PM Sanna Marin faces tough re-election bid

Turkey’s parliament voted unanimously to formally approve Finland’s membership to NATO on Thursday. Finland and Sweden both applied to NATO in May 2022 in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. NATO membership requires the unanimous consent of all member nations. Finland passed its last test in the membership process with Ankara's decision late on Thursday.

Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership

The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out.&nbsp;Finland can now formally join NATO in a couple of days.

“All 30 NATO members have now ratified Finland’s membership,” Finnish President Sauli Niinistö&nbsp;tweeted. “I want to thank every one of them for their trust and support. Finland will be a strong and capable Ally, committed to the security of the Alliance,” he said.

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— Sauli Niinistö (@niinisto) <a href="https://twitter.com/niinisto/status/1641547055414886401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The role of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is prominent as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts have claimed that Ukraine's persistence on wanting to join the military alliance was the cause of the war&nbsp;that Vladimir Putin started in February 2022.

We explain the basic&nbsp;tenets of NATO, as well as how the inclusion of Finland can&nbsp;reshape the group.

<h2>Firstly, Why Finland and Sweden want to join the alliance?</h2>

The two nations have a long history of maintaining their neutrality and avoiding military alliances. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February 2022, this stance changed.&nbsp;

Experts claim that Vladimir Putin's activities have undermined a long-standing sense of stability in northern Europe, making countries like Sweden and Finland feel vulnerable, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

As soon as Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24, former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared that his country's membership in the alliance was a "done deal."&nbsp;

Finland had been invaded by the Soviets in late 1939. Although being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish army put up a valiant fight for more than three months. They managed to evade occupation but ultimately lost 10 per cent&nbsp;of their area.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-buying-weapons-from-north-korea-in-exchange-for-food-claims-us-577670">Russia buying weapons from North Korea in exchange for food, claims US</a>

As there have been numerous reports of Russian military aircraft violating Swedish airspace, Sweden has likewise felt at danger.

Only 28 per cent&nbsp;of Sweden's population indicated in April 2014 that they would be willing to join the alliance, according to <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/660842/survey-on-perception-of-nato-membership-in-sweden/">data compiled by Statista</a>. When the question was reposed in February 2022, the percentage increased to 41 per cent&nbsp;in favour of Sweden joining NATO. This percentage rose to 64 per cent&nbsp;in July 2022.&nbsp;

Similar to Finland, there was a shift in opinion about joining NATO. Only 24 per cent&nbsp;of the populace wants the nation to join the alliance in October 2021. Nevertheless, this increased to 76 per cent&nbsp;in May 2022.

Sweden and Finland were invited by all NATO partners in June of last year, and the ratification process has been proceeding ever since. While Sweden's bid to join the alliance is still encountering difficulties, Finland has received approval from all 30 countries, with Turkey being the latest to do so.

<h2>What would Finland's and Sweden's&nbsp;inclusion mean for NATO?</h2>

With Finland's inclusion, NATO's border with Russia will grow from its current 6 per cent&nbsp;land perimeter to its entire length. That would provide the alliance access to Finland's well-trained military, which currently employs weaponry that are compatible with the alliance, allowing it to increase its surveillance of Russia's western flank.

Although,&nbsp;Russia is now mired in its conflict in Ukraine, it still poses a small threat, and allies shouldn't underestimate Moscow's capacity to rebuild its military after the conflict, reported The Japan Times.&nbsp;

Additionally, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three of the EU's Baltic countries who are frequently considered prospective targets of Russian attack, will be protected by the bloc's increased security of the region surrounding the Baltic Sea as a result of Finland's entry.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership

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It adds a second Arctic nation to the alliance, one whose military has been trained for cold weather, which is a valuable asset at a time when the High North is becoming more strategically significant due to China's and Russia's increased presence there.&nbsp;

Since the two Nordic countries submitted their applications in May of last year, Finland's ratification represents one of the fastest memberships in NATO history. It took two years for North Macedonia to become the last member of the alliance.

<h2>What does NATO signify and who are part of it?</h2>

The United States,&nbsp;United Kingdom, Canada, and France were among the 12 nations that established NATO in 1949. The goal of this bloc was to protect one another from the former Soviet Union. It was the first military alliance between the United States and a non-Western country.&nbsp;

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Map showing the member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) <a href="https://t.co/tU2T6klTe4">pic.twitter.com/tU2T6klTe4</a>
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1480500919477411847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The core idea of collective defence as outlined in Article 5 binds group members, who have increased from 12 at the start to 30 at the most recent count. It still serves as a distinctive and enduring tenet that unites its members, committing them to defend one another and fostering a feeling of unity within the Alliance.

At present,&nbsp;NATO has 30 members. They are made up of 12 founding members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out.

The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out. Finland can now formally join NATO in a couple of days. “All 30 NATO members have now ratified Finland’s membership,” Finnish President Sauli Niinistö tweeted. “I want to thank every one of them for their trust and support. Finland will be a strong and capable Ally, committed to the security of the Alliance,” he said. pic.twitter.com/bK15QpZKGX — Sauli Niinistö (@niinisto) March 30, 2023 × The role of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is prominent as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts have claimed that Ukraine's persistence on wanting to join the military alliance was the cause of the war that Vladimir Putin started in February 2022. We explain the basic tenets of NATO, as well as how the inclusion of Finland can reshape the group. Firstly, Why Finland and Sweden want to join the alliance? The two nations have a long history of maintaining their neutrality and avoiding military alliances. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February 2022, this stance changed. Experts claim that Vladimir Putin's activities have undermined a long-standing sense of stability in northern Europe, making countries like Sweden and Finland feel vulnerable, as reported by AFP. As soon as Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24, former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared that his country's membership in the alliance was a "done deal." Finland had been invaded by the Soviets in late 1939. Although being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish army put up a valiant fight for more than three months. They managed to evade occupation but ultimately lost 10 per cent of their area. ALSO READ | Russia buying weapons from North Korea in exchange for food, claims US As there have been numerous reports of Russian military aircraft violating Swedish airspace, Sweden has likewise felt at danger. Only 28 per cent of Sweden's population indicated in April 2014 that they would be willing to join the alliance, according to data compiled by Statista. When the question was reposed in February 2022, the percentage increased to 41 per cent in favour of Sweden joining NATO. This percentage rose to 64 per cent in July 2022. Similar to Finland, there was a shift in opinion about joining NATO. Only 24 per cent of the populace wants the nation to join the alliance in October 2021. Nevertheless, this increased to 76 per cent in May 2022. Sweden and Finland were invited by all NATO partners in June of last year, and the ratification process has been proceeding ever since. While Sweden's bid to join the alliance is still encountering difficulties, Finland has received approval from all 30 countries, with Turkey being the latest to do so. What would Finland's and Sweden's inclusion mean for NATO? With Finland's inclusion, NATO's border with Russia will grow from its current 6 per cent land perimeter to its entire length. That would provide the alliance access to Finland's well-trained military, which currently employs weaponry that are compatible with the alliance, allowing it to increase its surveillance of Russia's western flank. Although, Russia is now mired in its conflict in Ukraine, it still poses a small threat, and allies shouldn't underestimate Moscow's capacity to rebuild its military after the conflict, reported The Japan Times. Additionally, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three of the EU's Baltic countries who are frequently considered prospective targets of Russian attack, will be protected by the bloc's increased security of the region surrounding the Baltic Sea as a result of Finland's entry. ALSO WATCH | Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership It adds a second Arctic nation to the alliance, one whose military has been trained for cold weather, which is a valuable asset at a time when the High North is becoming more strategically significant due to China's and Russia's increased presence there. Since the two Nordic countries submitted their applications in May of last year, Finland's ratification represents one of the fastest memberships in NATO history. It took two years for North Macedonia to become the last member of the alliance. What does NATO signify and who are part of it? The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and France were among the 12 nations that established NATO in 1949. The goal of this bloc was to protect one another from the former Soviet Union. It was the first military alliance between the United States and a non-Western country. Map showing the member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) pic.twitter.com/tU2T6klTe4 — AFP News Agency (@AFP) January 10, 2022 × The core idea of collective defence as outlined in Article 5 binds group members, who have increased from 12 at the start to 30 at the most recent count. It still serves as a distinctive and enduring tenet that unites its members, committing them to defend one another and fostering a feeling of unity within the Alliance. At present, NATO has 30 members. They are made up of 12 founding members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: From neutral to NATO, what does Finland's entry mean for the military alliance?

The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance. The approval ends months of foot-dragging by the ruling Fidesz party on the matter.&nbsp;

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin tweeted after the vote, she said: "Thank you for the decision with clear numbers!"&nbsp;

With 182 votes versus six against, a large majority of lawmakers approved the accession of the Nordic country into the military alliance.&nbsp;

The vote means that 29 out of 30 NATO member state parliaments have ratified Finland's accession. The last will be Turkey's assembly, which is expected to also give Helsinki the nod next month.

Initially, Finland aimed to join together with fellow NATO aspirant Sweden, a Nordic power facing a litany of disputes with Turkey that ultimately sunk its chance to join the bloc before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus&nbsp;

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"The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden will strengthen the security of the whole Alliance. It is in everyone's interest that Sweden also becomes a member of NATO before the Vilnius Summit," said Marin.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.&nbsp;

After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance.

The Hungarian parliament approved a bill on Monday (March 27) to allow Finland to join The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) once its application has been ratified by all 30 members of the alliance. The approval ends months of foot-dragging by the ruling Fidesz party on the matter. Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin tweeted after the vote, she said: "Thank you for the decision with clear numbers!" With 182 votes versus six against, a large majority of lawmakers approved the accession of the Nordic country into the military alliance. The vote means that 29 out of 30 NATO member state parliaments have ratified Finland's accession. The last will be Turkey's assembly, which is expected to also give Helsinki the nod next month. Initially, Finland aimed to join together with fellow NATO aspirant Sweden, a Nordic power facing a litany of disputes with Turkey that ultimately sunk its chance to join the bloc before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine, Russia war: Putin to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus × "The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden will strengthen the security of the whole Alliance. It is in everyone's interest that Sweden also becomes a member of NATO before the Vilnius Summit," said Marin. Earlier this month, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April. After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hungary parliament backs Finland's NATO accession

Air force commanders from Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark said on Friday (March 25) that they signed a letter of intent to create a unified Nordic air defence aimed at countering the rising threat from Russia. The air force commanders had first discussed the closer cooperation at a meeting in Sweden in November last year.&nbsp;

“The ultimate goal is to be able to operate seamlessly together as one force by developing a Nordic concept for joint air operations based on already known NATO methodology,” Denmark's air force said in a statement.&nbsp;

Speaking to the news agency Reuters, Major General Jan Dam, the commander of the Danish air force, said that the move to integrate the air forces of the Nordic countries was triggered by Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. Major General Dam added that the combined fleet could be compared to a large European country.&nbsp;

Reuters reported on Friday that Sweden has over 90 Gripens jets; Norway has 57 F-16 fighter jets and 37 F-35 fighter jets with 15 more of the latter on order, and Finland has 62 F/A-18 Hornet jets and 64 F-35s on order. Denmark, meanwhile, has 58 F-16s and 27 F-35s on order.&nbsp;

However, it was unclear how many of these aircraft were operational.&nbsp;

The signing at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany last week was attended by NATO's Air Command chief General James Hecker, who also oversees the US Air Force in the region, the news agency reported.&nbsp;

Norway and Denmark are already members of NATO. Finland and Sweden applied to join NATO last year and Finland is expected to join the inter-governmental military alliance within weeks. Sweden, on the other hand, is facing a delay due to resistance from Turkey and Hungary.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Air force commanders from Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark said on Friday (March 25) that they signed a letter of intent to create a unified Nordic air defence aimed at countering the rising threat from Russia.

Air force commanders from Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark said on Friday (March 25) that they signed a letter of intent to create a unified Nordic air defence aimed at countering the rising threat from Russia. The air force commanders had first discussed the closer cooperation at a meeting in Sweden in November last year. “The ultimate goal is to be able to operate seamlessly together as one force by developing a Nordic concept for joint air operations based on already known NATO methodology,” Denmark's air force said in a statement. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, Major General Jan Dam, the commander of the Danish air force, said that the move to integrate the air forces of the Nordic countries was triggered by Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. Major General Dam added that the combined fleet could be compared to a large European country. Reuters reported on Friday that Sweden has over 90 Gripens jets; Norway has 57 F-16 fighter jets and 37 F-35 fighter jets with 15 more of the latter on order, and Finland has 62 F/A-18 Hornet jets and 64 F-35s on order. Denmark, meanwhile, has 58 F-16s and 27 F-35s on order. However, it was unclear how many of these aircraft were operational. The signing at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany last week was attended by NATO's Air Command chief General James Hecker, who also oversees the US Air Force in the region, the news agency reported. Norway and Denmark are already members of NATO. Finland and Sweden applied to join NATO last year and Finland is expected to join the inter-governmental military alliance within weeks. Sweden, on the other hand, is facing a delay due to resistance from Turkey and Hungary. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nordic nations plan joint air defence to counter rising threat from Russia

Finland suffered greatly as a result of the Russia-Ukraine War. Sweden The alliance now has the agreement of Denmark and Norway to build a united Nordic air defence. Despite the formal agreement omitting any reference of Russia, the Nordic countries will operate a joint fleet of more than 250 fighters in response to growing threats from Moscow.

Nordic countries to establish unified air defence

Finland, which has been crowned as the world's happiest country for six years continuously, is now planning to offer a masterclass on happiness to the rest of the world.

A four-day masterclass on happiness is being hosted by the Nordic country in June, and its tourism board stated that 10 lucky applicants will get to visit Norway for free.

Other participants will be able to virtually study and cheer up when the masterclass is later made available online.

In a statement, senior director of international marketing at Business Finland Heli Jimenez said, "A question we often get is: 'How are you so happy?'"

"We believe Finnish happiness stems from a close relationship with nature and our down-to-earth lifestyle: it's not some mystical state, but a skill that can be learned and shared,” Jimenez added.

Finland recently clinched the top position in the World Happiness Report again. The World Happiness Report observes six factors to measure happiness – generosity, freedom, income, health, absence of corruption and social support.

The tourism authorities understand why the citizens are consistently so happy which includes access to nature, efficient public services and low levels of corruption and crime.

The authorities now plan to "help people find and master that Finnish state of mind", including saunas and pine forests.

"We've chosen the best coaches, one of the most breath-taking resorts in Finland, and a time in the early summer amid the beautiful Finnish nature for our masterclass," said Jimenez.

"We feel it's a really unique opportunity to discover something wonderful and valuable: anyone curious should definitely apply,” she added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-to-start-ratifying-finlands-nato-membership-bid-573081">Turkey to start ratifying Finland's NATO membership bid; Hungary to vote on accession on March 27</a>

<h2>What will the course include?</h2>

The crash course of happiness will include four main themes — nature and lifestyle, health and balance, food and well-being and design — and four experts will teach the courses to those enrolled.

The programme will run from June 12-15 and participants will arrive a day before and depart the day after the course ends.

The participants will stay in the Finnish Lakeland region's luxury resort, Kuru Resort, which organisers describe as "surrounded by fragrant pine forests and breath-taking views”.

Every participant will be given their own villa which will have panoramic windows as well as a spa and private sauna.

Since the programme emphasises a digital detox and good sleep, the organiser said that no TVs will be available in the villas and the bedding, which has been approved by sleep specialists, will be provided to participants 
"Every minute detail (at) the resort is designed to help you wind down and relax — fragrances, sounds and materials included," they added.

The accommodation and travel expenses of the participants will be covered in the programme. However, they will be filmed during their entire visit.

WATCH | Gravitas: What makes Finland the happiest country?

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<h2>How to apply</h2>

According to the officials, anyone above the age of 18 can apply for the masterclass, either individually or with a partner, relative or friend.

The officials are in search of people who can speak English but are not representing any company or brand and are comfortable being filmed.

"We are looking for outgoing people who are interested in comprehensive well-being and Finnish nature. You don't have to be a self-help enthusiast or have survival skills in Finnish nature. All we want is an open mind,” the officials say.

To apply, one needs to fill in an online form and finish their social media challenge using either TikTok or Instagram.

The challenge is to create content, preferably record a video, showing "what things make you believe you may be secretly a Finn," and also explain why you wish to take this masterclass.

"Are you the type of person who would much rather go to a forest than to a party? One who feels absolute desperation when running out of coffee? Prefers washing up in a lake rather than in the shower? That's just your inner Finn," stated Visit Finland in an Instagram post while announcing the challenge.

The deadline for applications is April 2 and winners will be announced publicly on social media a month later.

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Finland, which has been crowned as the world's happiest country for six years continuously, is now planning to offer a masterclass on happiness to the rest of the world.

Finland, which has been crowned as the world's happiest country for six years continuously, is now planning to offer a masterclass on happiness to the rest of the world. A four-day masterclass on happiness is being hosted by the Nordic country in June, and its tourism board stated that 10 lucky applicants will get to visit Norway for free. Other participants will be able to virtually study and cheer up when the masterclass is later made available online. In a statement, senior director of international marketing at Business Finland Heli Jimenez said, "A question we often get is: 'How are you so happy?'" "We believe Finnish happiness stems from a close relationship with nature and our down-to-earth lifestyle: it's not some mystical state, but a skill that can be learned and shared,” Jimenez added. Finland recently clinched the top position in the World Happiness Report again. The World Happiness Report observes six factors to measure happiness – generosity, freedom, income, health, absence of corruption and social support. The tourism authorities understand why the citizens are consistently so happy which includes access to nature, efficient public services and low levels of corruption and crime. The authorities now plan to "help people find and master that Finnish state of mind", including saunas and pine forests. "We've chosen the best coaches, one of the most breath-taking resorts in Finland, and a time in the early summer amid the beautiful Finnish nature for our masterclass," said Jimenez. "We feel it's a really unique opportunity to discover something wonderful and valuable: anyone curious should definitely apply,” she added. ALSO READ | Turkey to start ratifying Finland's NATO membership bid; Hungary to vote on accession on March 27 What will the course include? The crash course of happiness will include four main themes — nature and lifestyle, health and balance, food and well-being and design — and four experts will teach the courses to those enrolled. The programme will run from June 12-15 and participants will arrive a day before and depart the day after the course ends. The participants will stay in the Finnish Lakeland region's luxury resort, Kuru Resort, which organisers describe as "surrounded by fragrant pine forests and breath-taking views”. Every participant will be given their own villa which will have panoramic windows as well as a spa and private sauna. Since the programme emphasises a digital detox and good sleep, the organiser said that no TVs will be available in the villas and the bedding, which has been approved by sleep specialists, will be provided to participants "Every minute detail (at) the resort is designed to help you wind down and relax — fragrances, sounds and materials included," they added. The accommodation and travel expenses of the participants will be covered in the programme. However, they will be filmed during their entire visit. WATCH | Gravitas: What makes Finland the happiest country? How to apply According to the officials, anyone above the age of 18 can apply for the masterclass, either individually or with a partner, relative or friend. The officials are in search of people who can speak English but are not representing any company or brand and are comfortable being filmed. "We are looking for outgoing people who are interested in comprehensive well-being and Finnish nature. You don't have to be a self-help enthusiast or have survival skills in Finnish nature. All we want is an open mind,” the officials say. To apply, one needs to fill in an online form and finish their social media challenge using either TikTok or Instagram. The challenge is to create content, preferably record a video, showing "what things make you believe you may be secretly a Finn," and also explain why you wish to take this masterclass. "Are you the type of person who would much rather go to a forest than to a party? One who feels absolute desperation when running out of coffee? Prefers washing up in a lake rather than in the shower? That's just your inner Finn," stated Visit Finland in an Instagram post while announcing the challenge. The deadline for applications is April 2 and winners will be announced publicly on social media a month later. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Finland, world's happiest country, now offering masterclass on happiness for free

It is World Happiness Day and the UN's Happiness report is out. Finland has become the happiest nation for the sixth time in a row. What is the secret to Finns' happiness? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: What makes Finland the happiest country?

Sweden's Foreign Minister said that Turkiye not approving its bid to join NATO, is something Sweden did not want but was prepared for. On Friday, Turkiye decided to ratify Finland's application but not Sweden's. Sweden says it is only a matter of time before the membership bid is accepted.

Turkiye contemplates NATO membership for Sweden, approves Finland

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday (March 17) that his government will start the process of ratifying Finland's North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership bid in Parliament after the country took concrete steps to keep its promises. "We have decided to start the protocol of Finland's accession to NATO in our parliament," Erdogan said following talks with his visiting Finnish counterpart Sauli Niinisto, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Erdogan added that NATO will play a role in maintaining global security, and stability by getting stronger with Finland's membership.&nbsp;

Finnish President Niinisto reacted to the development by saying that it was important news for all. However, he said that Finland's application was not complete without Sweden.&nbsp;

Hungary, meanwhile, will vote on Finland's application to join the US-led intergovernmental military alliance on March 27. Taking to Twitter, Hungarian government spokesperson Zoltan Kovacs said, "The parliamentary vote will take place on March 27,"&nbsp;adding the ruling&nbsp;Fidesz party supported Finland's ascension.&nbsp;

Finland and Sweden applied to join NATO after Russia announced its special military operation in Ukraine in February last year. The membership requires approval from all 30 member countries.&nbsp;

Though Finland received the backing of all members, Sweden has faced objections from Turkey&nbsp;on terrorism-related issues. Earlier, Turkish President Erdogan had said that the country won’t support Sweden’s ascension bid to NATO and demanded that they extradite dozens of suspects, which it considers “terrorists", including the Kurdistan Workers' Party.&nbsp;

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Turkey's decision to ratifying Finland's membership, and said&nbsp;Sweden should also be allowed to join "as soon as possible".

"The most important thing is that both Finland and&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;become full members of NATO quickly, not whether they join at exactly the same time," Stoltenberg said.&nbsp;

Echoing the position of NATO chief, United States&nbsp;National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that the government has appealed&nbsp;Hungary to finalise&nbsp;its ratification process both for Finland and Sweden&nbsp;"without delay".

However, Sweden expressed its disappointment over its exclusion&nbsp;from NATO expansion. "This is a development that we did not want, but that we were prepared for," said Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday (March 17) that his government will start the process of ratifying Finland's North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership bid in Parliament after the country took concrete steps to keep its promises.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday (March 17) that his government will start the process of ratifying Finland's North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership bid in Parliament after the country took concrete steps to keep its promises. "We have decided to start the protocol of Finland's accession to NATO in our parliament," Erdogan said following talks with his visiting Finnish counterpart Sauli Niinisto, the news agency AFP reported. Erdogan added that NATO will play a role in maintaining global security, and stability by getting stronger with Finland's membership. Finnish President Niinisto reacted to the development by saying that it was important news for all. However, he said that Finland's application was not complete without Sweden. Hungary, meanwhile, will vote on Finland's application to join the US-led intergovernmental military alliance on March 27. Taking to Twitter, Hungarian government spokesperson Zoltan Kovacs said, "The parliamentary vote will take place on March 27," adding the ruling Fidesz party supported Finland's ascension. Finland and Sweden applied to join NATO after Russia announced its special military operation in Ukraine in February last year. The membership requires approval from all 30 member countries. Though Finland received the backing of all members, Sweden has faced objections from Turkey on terrorism-related issues. Earlier, Turkish President Erdogan had said that the country won’t support Sweden’s ascension bid to NATO and demanded that they extradite dozens of suspects, which it considers “terrorists", including the Kurdistan Workers' Party. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Turkey's decision to ratifying Finland's membership, and said Sweden should also be allowed to join "as soon as possible". "The most important thing is that both Finland and Sweden become full members of NATO quickly, not whether they join at exactly the same time," Stoltenberg said. Echoing the position of NATO chief, United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that the government has appealed Hungary to finalise its ratification process both for Finland and Sweden "without delay". However, Sweden expressed its disappointment over its exclusion from NATO expansion. "This is a development that we did not want, but that we were prepared for," said Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey to start ratifying Finland's NATO membership bid; Hungary to vote on accession on March 27

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim&nbsp;came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.&nbsp;

Niinisto will visit Istanbul this week for the final decision taken by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Finnish President said, "The Turks have hoped that I will be there to receive the answer when they announce the decision. Of course, I accepted the invitation and will go to receive his expression of intent."&nbsp;

"We knew that when Turkish President Erdogan on his part has decided to ratify Finland's NATO membership, he wants to meet and fulfil his promise president to president," Niinisto said in an email to Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-aircraft-intercepted-by-british-raf-and-german-jets-near-estonian-airspace-572263">Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace</a>&nbsp;

Two Turkish officials divulged further details in this matter to&nbsp;news agency Reuters on Wednesday. One senior Turkish official said that Finland's bid would be approved independently from that of Sweden.&nbsp;

The other official said that the way Finland&nbsp;tackles terrorist organisations, aligns with Turkey's sensitivities and that Helsinki had taken steps in that regard.&nbsp;

Erdogan has also hinted that Turkey could soon ratify Finland's NATO application, allowing the country to join the military alliance, but it will be separated from Sweden.&nbsp;

Erdogan said: "Whatever the process is, the process will function. We will do our part. We will keep our promise. We will meet with the president on Friday and fulfil the promise we made."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Former Australian PM slams Three-Nation Nuclear Submarine Deal&nbsp;

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After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles.&nbsp;

To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. Hungary and Turkey have not given the green light to Finland and Sweden. Ankara said that Stockholm harbours members of terrorist groups, which Sweden denies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April. Niinisto will visit Istanbul this week for the final decision taken by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Finnish President said, "The Turks have hoped that I will be there to receive the answer when they announce the decision. Of course, I accepted the invitation and will go to receive his expression of intent." "We knew that when Turkish President Erdogan on his part has decided to ratify Finland's NATO membership, he wants to meet and fulfil his promise president to president," Niinisto said in an email to Reuters. ALSO READ | Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace Two Turkish officials divulged further details in this matter to news agency Reuters on Wednesday. One senior Turkish official said that Finland's bid would be approved independently from that of Sweden. The other official said that the way Finland tackles terrorist organisations, aligns with Turkey's sensitivities and that Helsinki had taken steps in that regard. Erdogan has also hinted that Turkey could soon ratify Finland's NATO application, allowing the country to join the military alliance, but it will be separated from Sweden. Erdogan said: "Whatever the process is, the process will function. We will do our part. We will keep our promise. We will meet with the president on Friday and fulfil the promise we made." WATCH | Former Australian PM slams Three-Nation Nuclear Submarine Deal × After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. Hungary and Turkey have not given the green light to Finland and Sweden. Ankara said that Stockholm harbours members of terrorist groups, which Sweden denies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland claims Turkey has reached decision on its NATO membership bid

Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Monday (March 13) that the country was open for discussions to provide fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has urged the West to provide F-16 fighter jets but this specific demand has not led to enthusiastic replies. Countries like Germany have categorigally denied any such likelihood.

While Finland is currently operating a fleet of F/A-18 Hornet jets, it announced in December 2021 that it was ordering 64 F-35A multi-role fighter jets from US contractor Lockheed Martin.

"We have new F35 fighters coming... When these old Hornets are decommissioned, we can discuss their future use," Prime Minister Sanna Marin told reporters Monday.

However, while Finland plans to replace the jets -- the model of which entered into production in the 1980s -- the new aircraft are not due to arrive until 2025.

Since the start of the Ukraine war, Western states have provided weapons and other aid to Ukraine which has helped it turn the tide. But Western countries are not in favour of providing fighter jets to Ukraine for the fear of escalation of tensions with nuclear-armed Russia. &nbsp;

But experts have noted that red lines in other areas have shifted, including the initial opposition to delivering heavy tanks which was dropped in January.

While some European nations have softened in their stance even on fighter jets, US President Joe Biden declared in an interview with ABC News in February that Ukraine "doesn't need F-16s now".

Marin already sparked controversy at home when she told reporters that she was open to discussing the matter during a visit to Kyiv on Friday.

"I think we can have a discussion about the Hornets, whether it would be possible to hand them over to Ukraine, and what kind of training they might need alongside them," she said.

"No decisions have been made," Marin stressed and added that such an initiative would need international cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Monday (March 13) that the country was open for discussions to provide fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has urged the West to provide F-16 fighter jets but this specific demand has not led to enthusiastic replies.

Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Monday (March 13) that the country was open for discussions to provide fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has urged the West to provide F-16 fighter jets but this specific demand has not led to enthusiastic replies. Countries like Germany have categorigally denied any such likelihood. While Finland is currently operating a fleet of F/A-18 Hornet jets, it announced in December 2021 that it was ordering 64 F-35A multi-role fighter jets from US contractor Lockheed Martin. "We have new F35 fighters coming... When these old Hornets are decommissioned, we can discuss their future use," Prime Minister Sanna Marin told reporters Monday. However, while Finland plans to replace the jets -- the model of which entered into production in the 1980s -- the new aircraft are not due to arrive until 2025. Since the start of the Ukraine war, Western states have provided weapons and other aid to Ukraine which has helped it turn the tide. But Western countries are not in favour of providing fighter jets to Ukraine for the fear of escalation of tensions with nuclear-armed Russia. But experts have noted that red lines in other areas have shifted, including the initial opposition to delivering heavy tanks which was dropped in January. While some European nations have softened in their stance even on fighter jets, US President Joe Biden declared in an interview with ABC News in February that Ukraine "doesn't need F-16s now". Marin already sparked controversy at home when she told reporters that she was open to discussing the matter during a visit to Kyiv on Friday. "I think we can have a discussion about the Hornets, whether it would be possible to hand them over to Ukraine, and what kind of training they might need alongside them," she said. "No decisions have been made," Marin stressed and added that such an initiative would need international cooperation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Finland open to discuss donating fighter jets to Ukraine: PM

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Wednesday that Bakhmut, the city in eastern Ukraine that has witnessed fierce fighting in recent months, may fall into Russian hands in the coming days.&nbsp;

“What we see is that Russia is throwing more troops, more forces and what Russia lacks in quality they try to make up in quantity," Stoltenberg said after a meeting of EU defence ministers in the Swedish capital of Stockholm.

“They have suffered big losses, but at the same time, we cannot rule out that Bakhmut may eventually fall in the coming days.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-since-taking-charge-australia-pm-albanese-arrives-in-india-569957">In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India</a>

The head of the trans-Atlantic alliance urged the member countries to continue lending support to Ukraine. “It just highlights that we should not underestimate Russia. We must continue to provide support to Ukraine,” he said.

Stoltenberg on Wednesday said Sweden and Finland's blocked bids for membership in the Western military alliance have made progress. His remarks came ahead of the meeting with officials from Sweden, Finland, and Turkey at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-aurat-march-baton-charged-as-demonstrations-mark-womens-day-across-world-569967">Pakistan Aurat March baton charged as demonstrations mark women's day across world</a>

“I don't expect the process to be concluded tomorrow. But I'm confident that Finland, Sweden will become NATO's allies,” Stoltenberg told media personnel in Stockholm.

Meanwhile, Josep Borrell, the head of foreign affairs for the European Union, said on Wednesday that he had urged the grouping to&nbsp;spend €1 billion to replenish their own stocks as well as to&nbsp;buy ammunition jointly for Ukraine. “I propose to mobilise another €1bn,” Reuters reported he told the media after a meeting of EU defence ministers in Stockholm.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-chief-warns-gender-equality-will-take-300-years-to-achieve-569947">UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve</a>

Borrell also discussed the investigations into the explosions of the Nord Stream gas pipeline, stating that no conclusions could be made while the inquiries were still underway. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Wednesday that Bakhmut, the city in eastern Ukraine that has witnessed fierce fighting in recent months, may fall into Russian hands in the coming days.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Wednesday that Bakhmut, the city in eastern Ukraine that has witnessed fierce fighting in recent months, may fall into Russian hands in the coming days. “What we see is that Russia is throwing more troops, more forces and what Russia lacks in quality they try to make up in quantity," Stoltenberg said after a meeting of EU defence ministers in the Swedish capital of Stockholm. “They have suffered big losses, but at the same time, we cannot rule out that Bakhmut may eventually fall in the coming days.” Also Read | In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India The head of the trans-Atlantic alliance urged the member countries to continue lending support to Ukraine. “It just highlights that we should not underestimate Russia. We must continue to provide support to Ukraine,” he said. Stoltenberg on Wednesday said Sweden and Finland's blocked bids for membership in the Western military alliance have made progress. His remarks came ahead of the meeting with officials from Sweden, Finland, and Turkey at the NATO headquarters in Brussels. Also Read | Pakistan Aurat March baton charged as demonstrations mark women's day across world “I don't expect the process to be concluded tomorrow. But I'm confident that Finland, Sweden will become NATO's allies,” Stoltenberg told media personnel in Stockholm. Meanwhile, Josep Borrell, the head of foreign affairs for the European Union, said on Wednesday that he had urged the grouping to spend €1 billion to replenish their own stocks as well as to buy ammunition jointly for Ukraine. “I propose to mobilise another €1bn,” Reuters reported he told the media after a meeting of EU defence ministers in Stockholm. Watch | UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve Borrell also discussed the investigations into the explosions of the Nord Stream gas pipeline, stating that no conclusions could be made while the inquiries were still underway. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bakhmut may fall within days, must not underestimate Russia: NATO chief

Finland has begun constructing a 200km (124 mile) fence on its border with Russia to boost security. The Border Guard said it will be 3m (10ft) tall with barbed wire on top. Finland shares the longest European Union border with Russia, at 1,340km (832 miles). At present, Finland's borders are secured primarily by light wooden fences.

Finland building war fence on Border with Russia

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