The index combines factors such as manpower, equipment, financial resources, and logistics to assign a PowerIndex score, where a lower score indicates greater military strength.

Where does Denmark stand in NATO? Revealing the top 7 most powerful militaries

Thirty-one member countries have assembled in Lithuania’s capital Vilnius for the crucial NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) summit to discuss Sweden’s bid to join the alliance and the Russia-Ukraine war situation.

Also, it is widely believed that Sweden would be accepted as the 32nd member after Turkey reportedly dropped its objections to the country joining the alliance.

Over the course of two days, some major announcements with regard to providing military aid to Ukraine are expected to be made at the conclusion of the meeting.

Further, they are also expected to step up their financial commitment, making the target of spending 2 per cent of national wealth on defence a minimum figure, rather than a general ambition.

BBC reported that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would call on allies directly to meet this target.

However, one other contentious issue is also expected to be discussed. Whether to accept Ukraine’s bid to join the Western alliance.

While NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said that the allies will send Ukraine "a clear and positive message on the path forward towards membership", President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday hit out at the alliance members over the uncertainty.

For years, Ukraine has been hoping to join NATO in the wake of threats from Russia. The discussions gained pace only two years ago when Russia invaded Ukraine.

Let’s look at what NATO is, and how a can country become a member.

<h2>What is NATO?</h2>

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was formed in 1949 by 12 countries, including the US, UK, Canada and France.

It currently has 31 members across Europe and North America.

They agree to help one another if they are attacked.

The alliance’s primary original aim was to block Soviet expansion in Europe after World War Two.

But following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991, many Eastern European countries joined the organisation.

For years Russia has opposed Ukraine's request to become a member, fearing it would bring NATO forces too close to its own territory.

But, Finland, which has a 1,340km (832 mile) land border with Russia, became a member in April 2023. Sweden is also expected to join the military alliance.

<h2>What was the issue with Sweden’s bid?</h2>

For decades, Sweden and Finland took a neutral foreign policy posture in the region, but the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war that started on February 24 last year triggered a shift in their approach.

While Finland managed to become a member unopposed, Sweden faced tough resistance from Hungary and Turkey—the other two members of NATO.

Turkey blamed Sweden for hosting its enemies, such as pro-Kurdish groups, and was irked when it allowed the burning of the Quran during protests.

But NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said that Sweden has now addressed "Turkey's legitimate security concerns", and that the Turkish government has decided to accept the country's application.

Stoltenberg said Hungary's government had promised to do the same.

Together, Sweden and Finland will bolster NATO forces with more than 280,000 regular and reserve troops.

<h2>What is the NATO membership process?</h2>

According to Article 10 of the alliance's charter, NATO follows an "open door" policy for countries seeking membership.

It says that countries that are party to the founding Washington Treaty can invite any European country to join the alliance in order to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic region.

But in order for a country to join NATO, unanimous approval is required, which means the approval of all existing allied countries.

NATO membership normally requires a long process. For membership, a multi-stage process is required to be completed by the aspiring nation.

Accordingly, when a country seeks to join the alliance, NATO sends an official invitation to that country. After that, a seven-step participation process begins.

<h2>Why Ukraine hasn’t been able to join NATO</h2>

In 2008, NATO said that Ukraine could join at a future date, but declined its September 2022 request for "fast-track" membership.

Article 5 of NATO's&nbsp;charter states that if one member is attacked, it is deemed to be an assault on all and hence all others must come to its defence.

If Ukraine joins the alliance during the current conflict with Russia, NATO countries would technically have to declare war on Russia.

Kyiv also believes that it cannot join NATO while the fighting rages. That would risk plunging the alliance into war with Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;U<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-slams-nato-leaders-over-uncertainty-on-countrys-membership-614326">krainian President Volodymyr Zelensky slams NATO leaders over 'uncertainty' on country's membership</a>

Instead, Ukraine wants a clear promise of post-war membership with a timeline, so it knows victory will bring the security guarantee of NATO's nuclear umbrella.

<h2>NATO’s plans to counter Russia </h2>

NATO, as an organisation, does not provide weapons or ammunition to Ukraine.

Though it wants to avoid a direct confrontation with nuclear-armed Russia, the military alliance organisation has been reinforcing the security of member countries near Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-air-strike-on-kyiv-ahead-of-nato-summit-614156">Russia launches air strike on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit</a>

Under its new plans, NATO aims to have up to 300,000 troops ready to move to its eastern flank within 30 days. The plans divide its territory into three zones – the high north and Atlantic area, a zone north of the Alps, and another in southern Europe.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Thirty-one member countries have assembled in Lithuania’s capital Vilnius for the crucial NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) summit to discuss Sweden’s bid to join the alliance and the Russia-Ukraine war situation.

Thirty-one member countries have assembled in Lithuania’s capital Vilnius for the crucial NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) summit to discuss Sweden’s bid to join the alliance and the Russia-Ukraine war situation. Also, it is widely believed that Sweden would be accepted as the 32nd member after Turkey reportedly dropped its objections to the country joining the alliance. Over the course of two days, some major announcements with regard to providing military aid to Ukraine are expected to be made at the conclusion of the meeting. Further, they are also expected to step up their financial commitment, making the target of spending 2 per cent of national wealth on defence a minimum figure, rather than a general ambition. BBC reported that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would call on allies directly to meet this target. However, one other contentious issue is also expected to be discussed. Whether to accept Ukraine’s bid to join the Western alliance. While NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said that the allies will send Ukraine "a clear and positive message on the path forward towards membership", President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday hit out at the alliance members over the uncertainty. For years, Ukraine has been hoping to join NATO in the wake of threats from Russia. The discussions gained pace only two years ago when Russia invaded Ukraine. Let’s look at what NATO is, and how a can country become a member. What is NATO? The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was formed in 1949 by 12 countries, including the US, UK, Canada and France. It currently has 31 members across Europe and North America. They agree to help one another if they are attacked. The alliance’s primary original aim was to block Soviet expansion in Europe after World War Two. But following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991, many Eastern European countries joined the organisation. For years Russia has opposed Ukraine's request to become a member, fearing it would bring NATO forces too close to its own territory. But, Finland, which has a 1,340km (832 mile) land border with Russia, became a member in April 2023. Sweden is also expected to join the military alliance. What was the issue with Sweden’s bid? For decades, Sweden and Finland took a neutral foreign policy posture in the region, but the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war that started on February 24 last year triggered a shift in their approach. While Finland managed to become a member unopposed, Sweden faced tough resistance from Hungary and Turkey—the other two members of NATO. Turkey blamed Sweden for hosting its enemies, such as pro-Kurdish groups, and was irked when it allowed the burning of the Quran during protests. But NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said that Sweden has now addressed "Turkey's legitimate security concerns", and that the Turkish government has decided to accept the country's application. Stoltenberg said Hungary's government had promised to do the same. Together, Sweden and Finland will bolster NATO forces with more than 280,000 regular and reserve troops. What is the NATO membership process? According to Article 10 of the alliance's charter, NATO follows an "open door" policy for countries seeking membership. It says that countries that are party to the founding Washington Treaty can invite any European country to join the alliance in order to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic region. But in order for a country to join NATO, unanimous approval is required, which means the approval of all existing allied countries. NATO membership normally requires a long process. For membership, a multi-stage process is required to be completed by the aspiring nation. Accordingly, when a country seeks to join the alliance, NATO sends an official invitation to that country. After that, a seven-step participation process begins. Why Ukraine hasn’t been able to join NATO In 2008, NATO said that Ukraine could join at a future date, but declined its September 2022 request for "fast-track" membership. Article 5 of NATO's charter states that if one member is attacked, it is deemed to be an assault on all and hence all others must come to its defence. If Ukraine joins the alliance during the current conflict with Russia, NATO countries would technically have to declare war on Russia. Kyiv also believes that it cannot join NATO while the fighting rages. That would risk plunging the alliance into war with Russia. Also read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky slams NATO leaders over 'uncertainty' on country's membership Instead, Ukraine wants a clear promise of post-war membership with a timeline, so it knows victory will bring the security guarantee of NATO's nuclear umbrella. NATO’s plans to counter Russia NATO, as an organisation, does not provide weapons or ammunition to Ukraine. Though it wants to avoid a direct confrontation with nuclear-armed Russia, the military alliance organisation has been reinforcing the security of member countries near Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. Also read | Russia launches air strike on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit Under its new plans, NATO aims to have up to 300,000 troops ready to move to its eastern flank within 30 days. The plans divide its territory into three zones – the high north and Atlantic area, a zone north of the Alps, and another in southern Europe. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: How Sweden was able to join NATO, but not Ukraine

Ukraine on Thursday said the time had come for NATO to clarify its stance on the war-torn country’s membership of the military alliance. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, “Ukraine continues to work actively with all NATO allies to convince them that the time for clarity on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance has come." His remarks came shortly after he spoke with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg over the phone.

<h2>Key NATO summit to be held next month</h2>

A major NATO security summit is slated to be held in Lithuania’s Vilnius on July 11-12, where Ukraine’s membership of the alliance is expected to be the key agenda on the table. Earlier on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky assured his Western counterparts that Kyiv’s full membership will further strengthen NATO, not weaken it. &nbsp;

While delivering a speech in the parliament, Zelensky said, “We are now a recipient of security assistance. But a victorious Ukraine will be a donor of security for our region, for the whole of Europe, for the whole world."

However, Zelensky has himself conceded that Ukraine will not become a NATO member until the conflict with Russia ends.

<h2>NATO ‘split’ on Ukraine’s membership</h2>

Speaking at a press conference in Brussels last week, the NATO chief acknowledged that the member countries were divided over the issue of Ukraine’s admission into the alliance in the upcoming alliance meet. "On that issue, there are different views in the alliance and of course, the only way to make decisions in Nato is by consensus," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying by Indiatimes.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Will NATO fight Ukraine's war against Russia?

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"No one is able to tell you exactly what will be the final decision at the Vilnius summit on this issue," Stoltenberg further said.

<h2>US reluctant on Ukraine’s NATO bid</h2>

NATO diplomats have expressed concerns over the United States' hesitation to extend its commitment to Ukraine beyond the membership pledge made 15 years ago. If Ukraine were to join NATO, it would fall under the protection of Article 5, which requires all member states to provide assistance in the event of an attack.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tough-to-include-ukraine-in-nato-while-war-goes-on-stoltenberg-596111">Also read:&nbsp;Tough to include Ukraine in NATO while war goes on: Stoltenberg</a>

However, Western allies of Ukraine are considering alternative security assurances that could be offered as an interim measure before full NATO membership is granted. France has recently stated its willingness to negotiate a deal with Ukraine, offering long-term security guarantees to enhance its self-defence capabilities.

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&nbsp;

Ukraine on Thursday said the time had come for NATO to clarify its stance on the war-torn country’s membership of the military alliance. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, “Ukraine continues to work actively with all NATO allies to convince them that the time for clarity on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance has come.

Ukraine on Thursday said the time had come for NATO to clarify its stance on the war-torn country’s membership of the military alliance. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, “Ukraine continues to work actively with all NATO allies to convince them that the time for clarity on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance has come." His remarks came shortly after he spoke with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg over the phone. Key NATO summit to be held next month A major NATO security summit is slated to be held in Lithuania’s Vilnius on July 11-12, where Ukraine’s membership of the alliance is expected to be the key agenda on the table. Earlier on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky assured his Western counterparts that Kyiv’s full membership will further strengthen NATO, not weaken it. While delivering a speech in the parliament, Zelensky said, “We are now a recipient of security assistance. But a victorious Ukraine will be a donor of security for our region, for the whole of Europe, for the whole world." However, Zelensky has himself conceded that Ukraine will not become a NATO member until the conflict with Russia ends. NATO ‘split’ on Ukraine’s membership Speaking at a press conference in Brussels last week, the NATO chief acknowledged that the member countries were divided over the issue of Ukraine’s admission into the alliance in the upcoming alliance meet. "On that issue, there are different views in the alliance and of course, the only way to make decisions in Nato is by consensus," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying by Indiatimes. Watch: Gravitas: Will NATO fight Ukraine's war against Russia? × "No one is able to tell you exactly what will be the final decision at the Vilnius summit on this issue," Stoltenberg further said. US reluctant on Ukraine’s NATO bid NATO diplomats have expressed concerns over the United States' hesitation to extend its commitment to Ukraine beyond the membership pledge made 15 years ago. If Ukraine were to join NATO, it would fall under the protection of Article 5, which requires all member states to provide assistance in the event of an attack. Also read: Tough to include Ukraine in NATO while war goes on: Stoltenberg However, Western allies of Ukraine are considering alternative security assurances that could be offered as an interim measure before full NATO membership is granted. France has recently stated its willingness to negotiate a deal with Ukraine, offering long-term security guarantees to enhance its self-defence capabilities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kyiv asks NATO to clarify its stance as alliance remains divided over Ukraine’s membership

On Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced that early next year, his nation's parliament would ratify Finland and Sweden's NATO membership.

As per AFP, after a meeting with regional counterparts in Slovakia, Orban told reporters "As we have already informed Sweden and Finland, Hungary supports the NATO membership of these two countries. It will be on the agenda of the first session of parliament" next year.

Watch |&nbsp;Erdogan renews threat to block Swedish, Finnish NATO bids

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The parliament session in question is scheduled to begin in February next year.

With the exception of Hungary and Turkey, the accession of Sweden and Finland has been approved by all 30 NATO members. New members require unanimous backing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-fails-to-agree-gas-price-cap-as-members-disagree-over-proposal-537168">European Union fails to agree on gas price cap, members to deliberate again next month</a>

"Hungary will surely give its backing to their accession after the government had done, also parliament will do so," said Orban as per Reuters.

Despite the government's insistence that Hungary supports Sweden and Finland's NATO membership, the nation's ruling party has repeatedly put off a parliamentary vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-nuclear-plants-reconnect-to-electricity-grid-after-russian-strikes-537107">Day after Russian strikes, Ukrainian nuclear plants reconnect to electricity grid</a>

The necessary legislation was presented by the Hungarian government in July, but the two bills have not yet been introduced for discussion and approval in the parliament.

Opposition parties have accused Orban's party of stalling by refusing to put the issue to a vote in parliament, where the Fidesz party holds a two-thirds majority. The socialist party called the move "incomprehensible and unjustified" while the Momentum party condemned the government of "blackmailing" the European Union.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced that early next year, his nation's parliament would ratify Finland and Sweden's NATO membership. As per AFP, after a meeting with regional counterparts in Slovakia, Orban told reporters "As we have already informed Sweden and Finland, Hungary supports the NATO membership of these two countries.

On Thursday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced that early next year, his nation's parliament would ratify Finland and Sweden's NATO membership. As per AFP, after a meeting with regional counterparts in Slovakia, Orban told reporters "As we have already informed Sweden and Finland, Hungary supports the NATO membership of these two countries. It will be on the agenda of the first session of parliament" next year. Watch | Erdogan renews threat to block Swedish, Finnish NATO bids The parliament session in question is scheduled to begin in February next year. With the exception of Hungary and Turkey, the accession of Sweden and Finland has been approved by all 30 NATO members. New members require unanimous backing. Also read | European Union fails to agree on gas price cap, members to deliberate again next month "Hungary will surely give its backing to their accession after the government had done, also parliament will do so," said Orban as per Reuters. Despite the government's insistence that Hungary supports Sweden and Finland's NATO membership, the nation's ruling party has repeatedly put off a parliamentary vote. Also read | Day after Russian strikes, Ukrainian nuclear plants reconnect to electricity grid The necessary legislation was presented by the Hungarian government in July, but the two bills have not yet been introduced for discussion and approval in the parliament. Opposition parties have accused Orban's party of stalling by refusing to put the issue to a vote in parliament, where the Fidesz party holds a two-thirds majority. The socialist party called the move "incomprehensible and unjustified" while the Momentum party condemned the government of "blackmailing" the European Union. (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.

PM Victor Orban says Hungary will back Finland and Sweden's NATO bid next year

Finland's President Sauli Niinisto declared on Sunday that his country will apply for NATO membership.

The president said the decision was taken after both his office and the government's foreign policy committee including the country's parliament&nbsp;agreed that Finland should join the European military alliance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-bid-finlands-president-calls-putin-turkey-ready-to-talk-478979">Also Read |&nbsp;NATO bid: Finland's President calls Putin; Turkey ready to talk</a>

"This is a historic day. A new era is opening," President Sauli Niinisto said.

The move comes as foreign ministers from Finland and Sweden joined in talks with their counterparts on the defence alliance in Berlin. Turkey President Erdogan had earlier expressed his opposition to Finland joining NATO however it signalled its readiness to talk to resolve the issue.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia threatens to retaliate over Finland's NATO membership move

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After Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his "special military operation" to invade Ukraine, Finland and Sweden had&nbsp;escalated efforts to join NATO to thwart possible Russian aggression.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Finland's President Sauli Niinisto declared on Sunday that his country will apply for NATO membership. The president said the decision was taken after both his office and the government's foreign policy committee including the country's parliament agreed that Finland should join the European military alliance.

Finland's President Sauli Niinisto declared on Sunday that his country will apply for NATO membership. The president said the decision was taken after both his office and the government's foreign policy committee including the country's parliament agreed that Finland should join the European military alliance. Also Read | NATO bid: Finland's President calls Putin; Turkey ready to talk "This is a historic day. A new era is opening," President Sauli Niinisto said. The move comes as foreign ministers from Finland and Sweden joined in talks with their counterparts on the defence alliance in Berlin. Turkey President Erdogan had earlier expressed his opposition to Finland joining NATO however it signalled its readiness to talk to resolve the issue. Watch: Russia threatens to retaliate over Finland's NATO membership move After Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his "special military operation" to invade Ukraine, Finland and Sweden had escalated efforts to join NATO to thwart possible Russian aggression. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Will apply for NATO membership, says Finland's President

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday hinted at the possibility of Ukraine applying for a NATO membership, saying that such a “possibility exists.”

“NATO will always stand by its principles of maintaining an open door. I won’t speculate on what to come…I do believe that in the future, if a possibility exists, Ukraine will seek to once again apply for the member of NATO,” Austin said while briefing the reporters at Ramstein US airbase in western Germany, where the US is hosting dozens of countries for a conference on bolstering Ukraine's defence capabilities.

Notably, the meeting saw a major announcement from Germany, which pledged to deliver tanks to Ukraine in a radical switch in policy on the supply of military equipment&nbsp;to the country.

Similarly, the United States has also pledged to move “heaven and Earth” to help Ukraine win its battle against the Russian invasion.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the United States had approved a US&nbsp;$165 million sale of ammunition for Ukraine's war effort, along with more than US $300 million in foreign military financing.

“The strategy that we've put in place — massive support for Ukraine, massive pressure against Russia, solidarity with more than 30 countries engaged in these efforts — is having real results,” Blinken told reporters in Poland the day after meeting Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials in Kyiv.

The announcements came hours after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused NATO of using to engage in a “proxy war” with Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-defence-ministry-investigating-russian-hack-targeting-its-army-recruits-473963" hreflang="en">United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits</a>

Condemning the delivery of weapons to Ukraine, Sergei Lavrov in an interview aired on Monday said, “"These weapons will be a legitimate target for Russia's military acting within the context of the special operation."

The United States and its allies have decided to meet once a month to discuss Ukraine's defence needs to battle invading Russian troops, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-of-world-war-iii-is-real-warns-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-473854" hreflang="en">Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov</a>

"Today's gathering will become a monthly Contact Group on Ukraine's self-defence," he said following the first session of a weapons summit.

Watch |&nbsp;US hosts over 40 military leaders as West vows to bolster Ukraine's defence

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(With inputs from agencies)

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday hinted at the possibility of Ukraine applying for a NATO membership, saying that such a “possibility exists.” “NATO will always stand by its principles of maintaining an open door.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday hinted at the possibility of Ukraine applying for a NATO membership, saying that such a “possibility exists.” “NATO will always stand by its principles of maintaining an open door. I won’t speculate on what to come…I do believe that in the future, if a possibility exists, Ukraine will seek to once again apply for the member of NATO,” Austin said while briefing the reporters at Ramstein US airbase in western Germany, where the US is hosting dozens of countries for a conference on bolstering Ukraine's defence capabilities. Notably, the meeting saw a major announcement from Germany, which pledged to deliver tanks to Ukraine in a radical switch in policy on the supply of military equipment to the country. Similarly, the United States has also pledged to move “heaven and Earth” to help Ukraine win its battle against the Russian invasion. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the United States had approved a US $165 million sale of ammunition for Ukraine's war effort, along with more than US $300 million in foreign military financing. “The strategy that we've put in place — massive support for Ukraine, massive pressure against Russia, solidarity with more than 30 countries engaged in these efforts — is having real results,” Blinken told reporters in Poland the day after meeting Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials in Kyiv. The announcements came hours after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused NATO of using to engage in a “proxy war” with Moscow. Also read | United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits Condemning the delivery of weapons to Ukraine, Sergei Lavrov in an interview aired on Monday said, “"These weapons will be a legitimate target for Russia's military acting within the context of the special operation." The United States and its allies have decided to meet once a month to discuss Ukraine's defence needs to battle invading Russian troops, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Tuesday. Also read | Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov "Today's gathering will become a monthly Contact Group on Ukraine's self-defence," he said following the first session of a weapons summit. Watch | US hosts over 40 military leaders as West vows to bolster Ukraine's defence (With inputs from agencies)

Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin says Ukraine could apply to join NATO in the future

Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, who is on a visit to India, has said that the European country can possibly become a NATO member by this summer.

The statement is significant since Russia last week warned of consequences if Finland and its neighbour Sweden tried to join the US-led military alliance.

The Russian military’s offensive in Ukraine has alarmed these Nordic countries who are now looking to shed their non-alignment policy.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, minister Lintilä said, "Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack...And, I have to say, the EU is stronger than ever in this case."

The economic minister is accompanied by a big business delegation and he is expected to meet many Indian ministers.

India’s trade with Finland crossed US$ 1 billion (Euros 870 million) mark, and is heavily in Finland’s favour.

Trade in services is growing and has crossed US$ 1.5 billion (Euros 1.3 billion) mark with many Indian IT companies positioned in Finland.

According to Indian government estimates, Finnish companies invested US$ 497 million between April 2000 and December 2019. Within the EU, Finland ranks 12th among countries investing in India.

More than 100 Finnish companies have operations in India, including through investments. Nokia, Kone, Wartsila, UPM, Fortum, Metso, Huhtamaki, Salcomp, Ahlstrom, etc. have set up their manufacturing facilities in India.

&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus of your visit to India?

Mika Lintilä: India is a very important and interesting partner. Finland is total export country, more than 40 per cent of our GDP is contributed by exports. In this situation, we need more and more companies to do export, bring investment in Finland and so on, and India is very important and has a lot of potential. We already have good relations between our countries. I want to have open doors for Indian companies. I have 13 companies in my delegation who are very interested in cooperating with Indian companies.

&nbsp;

WION: You are going to meet the policymakers, what are you going to tell them&nbsp;and what Finland can offer?

Mika Lintilä: For example, we can cooperate in the research sector, or can focus on our biggest challenge—climate change. Finland is one of the front runners in new technologies in the energy sector, like circular economy. We can offer (assistance) in the energy sector. This could be a sector in which we can have more cooperation.

&nbsp;

WION: Basically, you are mentioning clean energy

Mika Lintilä: Over 50 per cent of our energy needs come from renewable energy sources. We have different ways, like wind power, a little bit of solar power, not so much as India, biomass and so on. The one area where Finland has been a major player is the waste to energy. I am 100 per cent sure, we can offer you solutions where you can use waste to energy better.

&nbsp;

WION: What is Finland’s stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

Mika Lintilä: Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack. It is totally violent and against international law. Of course, war in Europe is very complicated, people are nervous. I have to say that the EU is stronger than ever in this case.

&nbsp;

WION: Europe is heavily reliant on Russian energy, what is your government doing to address that?

Mika Lintilä: Actually, our situation is quite good, because, for example, we import oil from other countries as well. Only 5 per cent of our energy needs are met with the Russian gas. But it could be a big challenge for Germany which uses a lot of Russian gas.

&nbsp;

WION: What can you do to help the European continent to reduce its dependency on Russian energy?

Mika Lintilä: We already have independent production in the energy sector, but as I said, there are a lot of European countries who are reliant on Russian gas. They have to find a new way to reduce their dependence and develop other sources of energy.

&nbsp;

WION: Will Finland join NATO? Because this is something that has been in news, and we saw the reaction from Moscow, which has sounded a warning

Mika Lintilä: The security situation is totally different as it was a few months ago. It could be possible that both countries or I can say that the Finish side could possibly join NATO this summer.

&nbsp;

WION: Indian PM will be visiting Denmark for the India-Nordic summit. We are going to have the Nordic leaders' summit as well, what will be the key focus?

Mika Lintilä: I don't know what will be discussed, but I can imagine that they are watching the big picture in the security situation globally and especially in Europe. Of course, they discussed how to continue relations with Russia. But they were talking before the invasion scenario. Now, it is difficult as these sanctions are tight.

&nbsp;

WION: Are European sanctions working on Russian leadership?

Mika Lintilä: I think sanctions working are better, but the main question is the energy sector, especially gas and oil. I am sure, the next sanctions will be on oil. In the financial sector, sanctions are tight and they work very well.

Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, who is on a visit to India, has said that the European country can possibly become a NATO member by this summer.

Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, who is on a visit to India, has said that the European country can possibly become a NATO member by this summer. The statement is significant since Russia last week warned of consequences if Finland and its neighbour Sweden tried to join the US-led military alliance. The Russian military’s offensive in Ukraine has alarmed these Nordic countries who are now looking to shed their non-alignment policy. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, minister Lintilä said, "Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack...And, I have to say, the EU is stronger than ever in this case." The economic minister is accompanied by a big business delegation and he is expected to meet many Indian ministers. India’s trade with Finland crossed US$ 1 billion (Euros 870 million) mark, and is heavily in Finland’s favour. Trade in services is growing and has crossed US$ 1.5 billion (Euros 1.3 billion) mark with many Indian IT companies positioned in Finland. According to Indian government estimates, Finnish companies invested US$ 497 million between April 2000 and December 2019. Within the EU, Finland ranks 12th among countries investing in India. More than 100 Finnish companies have operations in India, including through investments. Nokia, Kone, Wartsila, UPM, Fortum, Metso, Huhtamaki, Salcomp, Ahlstrom, etc. have set up their manufacturing facilities in India. WION: What is the focus of your visit to India? Mika Lintilä: India is a very important and interesting partner. Finland is total export country, more than 40 per cent of our GDP is contributed by exports. In this situation, we need more and more companies to do export, bring investment in Finland and so on, and India is very important and has a lot of potential. We already have good relations between our countries. I want to have open doors for Indian companies. I have 13 companies in my delegation who are very interested in cooperating with Indian companies. WION: You are going to meet the policymakers, what are you going to tell them and what Finland can offer? Mika Lintilä: For example, we can cooperate in the research sector, or can focus on our biggest challenge—climate change. Finland is one of the front runners in new technologies in the energy sector, like circular economy. We can offer (assistance) in the energy sector. This could be a sector in which we can have more cooperation. WION: Basically, you are mentioning clean energy Mika Lintilä: Over 50 per cent of our energy needs come from renewable energy sources. We have different ways, like wind power, a little bit of solar power, not so much as India, biomass and so on. The one area where Finland has been a major player is the waste to energy. I am 100 per cent sure, we can offer you solutions where you can use waste to energy better. WION: What is Finland’s stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine? Mika Lintilä: Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack. It is totally violent and against international law. Of course, war in Europe is very complicated, people are nervous. I have to say that the EU is stronger than ever in this case. WION: Europe is heavily reliant on Russian energy, what is your government doing to address that? Mika Lintilä: Actually, our situation is quite good, because, for example, we import oil from other countries as well. Only 5 per cent of our energy needs are met with the Russian gas. But it could be a big challenge for Germany which uses a lot of Russian gas. WION: What can you do to help the European continent to reduce its dependency on Russian energy? Mika Lintilä: We already have independent production in the energy sector, but as I said, there are a lot of European countries who are reliant on Russian gas. They have to find a new way to reduce their dependence and develop other sources of energy. WION: Will Finland join NATO? Because this is something that has been in news, and we saw the reaction from Moscow, which has sounded a warning Mika Lintilä: The security situation is totally different as it was a few months ago. It could be possible that both countries or I can say that the Finish side could possibly join NATO this summer. WION: Indian PM will be visiting Denmark for the India-Nordic summit. We are going to have the Nordic leaders' summit as well, what will be the key focus? Mika Lintilä: I don't know what will be discussed, but I can imagine that they are watching the big picture in the security situation globally and especially in Europe. Of course, they discussed how to continue relations with Russia. But they were talking before the invasion scenario. Now, it is difficult as these sanctions are tight. WION: Are European sanctions working on Russian leadership? Mika Lintilä: I think sanctions working are better, but the main question is the energy sector, especially gas and oil. I am sure, the next sanctions will be on oil. In the financial sector, sanctions are tight and they work very well.

Finland can possibly join NATO this summer: Minister Lintilä to WION

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has said that the West made a mistake by offering NATO membership to Ukraine, Sputnik news agency has reported.

"I am ready to admit that we have made a number of mistakes and that we have lost the opportunity of Russia's rapprochement with the West … There are moments that we could have done better, there are things that we proposed and then could not implement, such as the promise that Ukraine and Georgia would become part of NATO …I think it's a mistake to make promises you can't deliver," Borrell told the TF1 broadcaster.

In December, Russia had asked NATO not to include Ukraine and Belgium in their military alliance, adding that their inclusion would pose a threat to its security.

In fact, many believed that Russia launched an all-out attack against Ukraine because President Zelensky wanted to be a part of NATO.

Putin justified his invasion of Ukraine by stating that Russia’s goal was is that Ukraine is freed from oppression and "cleansed of the Nazis".

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-satellite-images-show-russian-military-convoy-northwest-of-kyiv-has-dispersed-redeployed-461121">&nbsp;Ukraine crisis: Satellite images show Russian military convoy northwest of Kyiv has 'dispersed, redeployed'</a>

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, however, has lost interest in the alliance. According to him, this happened after realizing that the organization was not ready to accept them.

"Regarding NATO, I have cooled down regarding this question long ago after we understood that NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky&nbsp;told ABC News&nbsp;in an exclusive interview that aired Monday night.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-tsar-bomba-worlds-most-powerful-nuclear-weapon-of-mass-destruction-460924">Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction</a>

Zelensky added: "The alliance is afraid of controversial things and confrontation with&nbsp;Russia. I never wanted to be a country which is begging something on its knees. We are not going to be that country, and I don't want to be that president."

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has said that the West made a mistake by offering NATO membership to Ukraine, Sputnik news agency has reported. "I am ready to admit that we have made a number of mistakes and that we have lost the opportunity of Russia's rapprochement with the West … There are moments that we could have done better, there are things that we proposed and then could not implement, such as the promise that Ukraine and Georgia would become part of NATO …I think it's a mistake to make promises you can't deliver," Borrell told the TF1 broadcaster. In December, Russia had asked NATO not to include Ukraine and Belgium in their military alliance, adding that their inclusion would pose a threat to its security. In fact, many believed that Russia launched an all-out attack against Ukraine because President Zelensky wanted to be a part of NATO. Putin justified his invasion of Ukraine by stating that Russia’s goal was is that Ukraine is freed from oppression and "cleansed of the Nazis". Also read | Ukraine crisis: Satellite images show Russian military convoy northwest of Kyiv has 'dispersed, redeployed' Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, however, has lost interest in the alliance. According to him, this happened after realizing that the organization was not ready to accept them. "Regarding NATO, I have cooled down regarding this question long ago after we understood that NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine," Zelensky told ABC News in an exclusive interview that aired Monday night. IN PICS | Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction Zelensky added: "The alliance is afraid of controversial things and confrontation with Russia. I never wanted to be a country which is begging something on its knees. We are not going to be that country, and I don't want to be that president." (With inputs from agencies)

West made a mistake by promising NATO membership to Ukraine: EU foreign policy chief Borrell

NATO member Lithuania has blocked the use of airport security-screening equipment made by a Chinese company over national security concerns.

The move came amid increased concern in the West over Chinese investments in critical infrastructure, including 5G telecommunications networks.

A government-appointed commission concluded that the equipment from China's Nuctech "does not meet national security interests," a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte told AFP.

Jakilaitiene declined to elaborate, saying that information provided by state agencies was classified.

Nuctech had been keen to bid for contracts for screening equipment at Lithuanian airports.&nbsp;

The Wall Street Journal reported last year that US agencies were rallying European governments to exclude Nuctech from installing systems at airports across Europe.

The United States has also described another major Chinese technology company, 5G network maker Huawei, as a "threat to national security" and "beholden to the Chinese Communist Party".

These allegations have been denied by Huawei and Chinese diplomats.

EU member Lithuania is a staunch US ally in NATO and currently hosts a battalion of American troops as it seeks an even greater military presence as a bulwark against its neighbouring Soviet-era master Russia.

Laurynas Kasciunas, chairman of parliament's national security and defence committee, said "investments and acquisitions in strategic sectors must meet the transatlantic security criteria".

Lithuania's intelligence agency warned in its annual report that "the active penetration of Chinese investments" posed the risk of "losing control over resources and infrastructure, market manipulation, and political influence."

(with inputs from AFP)

NATO member Lithuania has blocked the use of airport security-screening equipment made by a Chinese company over national security concerns. The move came amid increased concern in the West over Chinese investments in critical infrastructure, including 5G telecommunications networks.

NATO member Lithuania has blocked the use of airport security-screening equipment made by a Chinese company over national security concerns. The move came amid increased concern in the West over Chinese investments in critical infrastructure, including 5G telecommunications networks. A government-appointed commission concluded that the equipment from China's Nuctech "does not meet national security interests," a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte told AFP. Jakilaitiene declined to elaborate, saying that information provided by state agencies was classified. Nuctech had been keen to bid for contracts for screening equipment at Lithuanian airports. The Wall Street Journal reported last year that US agencies were rallying European governments to exclude Nuctech from installing systems at airports across Europe. The United States has also described another major Chinese technology company, 5G network maker Huawei, as a "threat to national security" and "beholden to the Chinese Communist Party". These allegations have been denied by Huawei and Chinese diplomats. EU member Lithuania is a staunch US ally in NATO and currently hosts a battalion of American troops as it seeks an even greater military presence as a bulwark against its neighbouring Soviet-era master Russia. Laurynas Kasciunas, chairman of parliament's national security and defence committee, said "investments and acquisitions in strategic sectors must meet the transatlantic security criteria". Lithuania's intelligence agency warned in its annual report that "the active penetration of Chinese investments" posed the risk of "losing control over resources and infrastructure, market manipulation, and political influence." (with inputs from AFP)

NATO member Lithuania bans Chinese airport screening equipment

An attempt by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to boast about its expansion backfired after it prompted an online war.

The Brussels-based organisation had posted a tweet on social networking site Twitter comprising the flags of its original members in 1949.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
How it started How it's going 
 
🇧🇪🇨🇦🇩🇰🇫🇷🇮🇸 🇦🇱🇧🇪🇧🇬🇨🇦🇭🇷 
🇮🇹🇱🇺🇳🇱🇳🇴🇵🇹 🇨🇿🇩🇰🇪🇪🇫🇷🇩🇪 
🇬🇧🇺🇸 🇬🇷🇭🇺🇮🇸🇮🇹🇱🇻 
🇱🇹🇱🇺🇲🇪🇳🇱🇲🇰 
🇳🇴🇵🇱🇵🇹🇷🇴🇸🇰 
🇸🇮🇪🇸🇹🇷🇬🇧🇺🇸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreNATO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreNATO</a>
— NATO (@NATO) <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO/status/1315611227138199555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, the ''how it started vs how it's going'' meme received an unexpected response and&nbsp;triggered a virtual bloodbath.

The replies that ensued the tweet ranged from calls to kick out Turkey and hopes for expansion in Ukraine, Georgia and the Balkans to another warfront between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Quite a succes, having Turkey on board...
— Publius031 #VerenigdRechts (@Publius0311) <a href="https://twitter.com/Publius0311/status/1315611460492562433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And how it should be... <a href="https://t.co/2qzvbY38KM">pic.twitter.com/2qzvbY38KM</a>
— Ghanem Nuseibeh (@gnuseibeh) <a href="https://twitter.com/gnuseibeh/status/1315632227808669697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's military aggression has put the country at odds with&nbsp;NATO and has become its&nbsp;biggest liability.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fall-of-democracy-turkeys-erdogan-openly-challenging-natos-values-333294">Fall of democracy: Turkey's Erdogan openly challenging NATO's values</a>

NATO, which was created in&nbsp;1949, has 30 members. In the aftermath of the second world war, the purpose was to secure peace in Europe, especially against the Soviet Union. Then the Soviet Union fell and the relevance of NATO came into question.

Turkey joined the organisation in 1952 because there was a synergy of interests. Turkey didn't want to fall under the Soviet influence and its military made key contributions in the fight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-under-erdogan-caught-between-democracy-and-dictatorship-333285">Also read|&nbsp;Turkey under Erdogan: Caught between democracy and dictatorship</a>

However, that is no longer the case. Today, Erdogan is on a collision course with the NATO. It is fighting the allies of NATO itself and that has been visible in Turkey's key activities in the past one year.

In January, Turkey violated a United Nations arms embrago in Libya. Turkish warships escorted a vessel suspected of smuggling weapons into Libya. By June, Turkey was locked in a direct face-off against Greece and France.

Now, Turkey is fueling another conflict&nbsp;in Nagorno-Karabakh.&nbsp;Turkey is arming Azerbaijan against Armenia.

NATO called for a ceasefire, but Turkey refuses to pay heed to such calls.

An attempt by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to boast about its expansion backfired after it prompted an online war. The Brussels-based organisation had posted a tweet on social networking site Twitter comprising the flags of its original members in 1949.

An attempt by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to boast about its expansion backfired after it prompted an online war. The Brussels-based organisation had posted a tweet on social networking site Twitter comprising the flags of its original members in 1949. How it started How it's going 🇧🇪🇨🇦🇩🇰🇫🇷🇮🇸 🇦🇱🇧🇪🇧🇬🇨🇦🇭🇷 🇮🇹🇱🇺🇳🇱🇳🇴🇵🇹 🇨🇿🇩🇰🇪🇪🇫🇷🇩🇪 🇬🇧🇺🇸 🇬🇷🇭🇺🇮🇸🇮🇹🇱🇻 🇱🇹🇱🇺🇲🇪🇳🇱🇲🇰 🇳🇴🇵🇱🇵🇹🇷🇴🇸🇰 🇸🇮🇪🇸🇹🇷🇬🇧🇺🇸#WeAreNATO — NATO (@NATO) October 12, 2020 × However, the ''how it started vs how it's going'' meme received an unexpected response and triggered a virtual bloodbath. The replies that ensued the tweet ranged from calls to kick out Turkey and hopes for expansion in Ukraine, Georgia and the Balkans to another warfront between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Quite a succes, having Turkey on board... — Publius031 #VerenigdRechts (@Publius0311) October 12, 2020 × And how it should be... pic.twitter.com/2qzvbY38KM — Ghanem Nuseibeh (@gnuseibeh) October 12, 2020 × Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's military aggression has put the country at odds with NATO and has become its biggest liability. Also read| Fall of democracy: Turkey's Erdogan openly challenging NATO's values NATO, which was created in 1949, has 30 members. In the aftermath of the second world war, the purpose was to secure peace in Europe, especially against the Soviet Union. Then the Soviet Union fell and the relevance of NATO came into question. Turkey joined the organisation in 1952 because there was a synergy of interests. Turkey didn't want to fall under the Soviet influence and its military made key contributions in the fight. Also read| Turkey under Erdogan: Caught between democracy and dictatorship However, that is no longer the case. Today, Erdogan is on a collision course with the NATO. It is fighting the allies of NATO itself and that has been visible in Turkey's key activities in the past one year. In January, Turkey violated a United Nations arms embrago in Libya. Turkish warships escorted a vessel suspected of smuggling weapons into Libya. By June, Turkey was locked in a direct face-off against Greece and France. Now, Turkey is fueling another conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. Turkey is arming Azerbaijan against Armenia. NATO called for a ceasefire, but Turkey refuses to pay heed to such calls.

NATO's expansionism tweet triggers online war

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