Amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine, the geopolitics of Europe is undergoing a major churn with the formerly neutral nations such as Finland and Sweden now seeking to join the western military alliance. The reports suggest that Finland will be announcing its bid to join the NATO military alliance practically as early as today while Sweden is likely to make the announcement by the end of this week.

Reports: Allies to approve Finland and Sweden's NATO membership bid

In a highly anticipated Victory day speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin has defended his decision to invade Ukraine. Speaking at V-day parade, which commemorates the defeat of Nazis, Putin said that Russia was facing absolutely unacceptable threat.

Victory Day Speech: NATO an 'obvious threat' to Russia

China's Vice Foreign minister accused the US of bringing NATO-style expansionism to the Indo-Pacific. He claimed that such policies could push the Indo-Pacific into the abyss. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China's latest warning on the Indo-Pacific

In a move that could stoke tensions, Seoul joined NATO’s cyber defence unit and NIS acceptance could bring South Korea closer to NATO. South Korea becomes the first nation to join US-led CDG.

Seoul joins NATO's cyber defence unit, China terms the move as 'provocation'

The White House has said that the United States is confident in addressing Sweden, and Finland's security concerns after they apply for membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

Both countries fear they could be vulnerable to attacks by Russia following its invasion of its neighbour Ukraine.

According to White House spokesperson Jen Psaki, "We are confident that we could find ways to address any concerns either country may have about the period of time between a NATO membership application and the formal accession to the alliance."

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Russia has threatened both Sweden and Finland that will face adverse consequences if they choose to become a part of NATO.

But it decides to attack them nonetheless, the two militarily non-aligned countries do not have enough capability to defeat it and are thus leaning towards NATO as its article 5 clearly states that an attack on one member is an attack on all members.

Even if the Nordic neighbours both decide to join NATO, the approval process can take up to a year as all 30 members need to ratify any membership bid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-rebuild-ukraine-win-war-against-russia-zelensky-launches-a-crowdfunding-platform-476590" hreflang="en">To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform</a>

In an effort to assure both the countries, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told Swedish public television SVT, "We must remember that from the moment Sweden potentially applies, and NATO says that it wants Sweden to join, there is a very strong NATO obligation to guarantee Sweden's security."

"We have several ways of doing that, among other things with a heightened presence of NATO and NATO forces around Sweden and the Baltic Sea," he added.

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin and Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde both have met officials from the US to obtain "security assurances."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House has said that the United States is confident in addressing Sweden, and Finland's security concerns after they apply for membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

The White House has said that the United States is confident in addressing Sweden, and Finland's security concerns after they apply for membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Both countries fear they could be vulnerable to attacks by Russia following its invasion of its neighbour Ukraine. According to White House spokesperson Jen Psaki, "We are confident that we could find ways to address any concerns either country may have about the period of time between a NATO membership application and the formal accession to the alliance." Russia has threatened both Sweden and Finland that will face adverse consequences if they choose to become a part of NATO. But it decides to attack them nonetheless, the two militarily non-aligned countries do not have enough capability to defeat it and are thus leaning towards NATO as its article 5 clearly states that an attack on one member is an attack on all members. Even if the Nordic neighbours both decide to join NATO, the approval process can take up to a year as all 30 members need to ratify any membership bid. Also read | To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform In an effort to assure both the countries, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told Swedish public television SVT, "We must remember that from the moment Sweden potentially applies, and NATO says that it wants Sweden to join, there is a very strong NATO obligation to guarantee Sweden's security." "We have several ways of doing that, among other things with a heightened presence of NATO and NATO forces around Sweden and the Baltic Sea," he added. Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin and Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde both have met officials from the US to obtain "security assurances." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

US expresses confidence in addressing Sweden, Finland's security concerns over NATO application

Serbia buys Chinese missiles: Europe's Russian connection

Swedish defence officials said on Saturday that a Russian reconnaissance plane violated Sweden's airspace briefly on Friday. It is notable that Sweden is mulling to join North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) after Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"A Russian AN-30 propeller plane violated Swedish airspace on Friday evening," the Swedish defence ministry said in a statement, adding that its teams had followed the incident and photographed it.

The plane was flying east of Bornholm before it headed towards Swedish territory, said the ministry. Bornholm is a Danish island in the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;

"It is totally unacceptable to violate Swedish airspace," public television SVT quoted Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist as saying.

"This action is unprofessional and given the general security situation very inappropriate. Swedish sovereignty must always be respected."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-army-damaged-1000-tanks-200-aircraft-2500-armored-vehicles-of-russian-forces-claims-zelensky-475357">Ukrainian army damaged 1,000 tanks, 200 aircraft, 2,500 armored vehicles of Russian forces, claims Zelensky</a> 
 
NATO was formed by western powers to keep a check on Russia's influence in eastern Europe. NATO has since expanded eastwards. Russia sees NATO's expansion as a move against it. Russia is fierecely opposed to NATO expansion in what it considers its backyard from the Soviet era.

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Even before the invasion of Ukraine, Russian President had made it clear in no uncertain terms that he was opposed to Ukraine joining NATO. Ukraine in past, has indicated willingness to join NATO.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish defence officials said on Saturday that a Russian reconnaissance plane violated Sweden's airspace briefly on Friday. It is notable that Sweden is mulling to join North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) after Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Swedish defence officials said on Saturday that a Russian reconnaissance plane violated Sweden's airspace briefly on Friday. It is notable that Sweden is mulling to join North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) after Russian invasion of Ukraine. "A Russian AN-30 propeller plane violated Swedish airspace on Friday evening," the Swedish defence ministry said in a statement, adding that its teams had followed the incident and photographed it. The plane was flying east of Bornholm before it headed towards Swedish territory, said the ministry. Bornholm is a Danish island in the Baltic Sea. "It is totally unacceptable to violate Swedish airspace," public television SVT quoted Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist as saying. "This action is unprofessional and given the general security situation very inappropriate. Swedish sovereignty must always be respected." Also Read | Ukrainian army damaged 1,000 tanks, 200 aircraft, 2,500 armored vehicles of Russian forces, claims Zelensky NATO was formed by western powers to keep a check on Russia's influence in eastern Europe. NATO has since expanded eastwards. Russia sees NATO's expansion as a move against it. Russia is fierecely opposed to NATO expansion in what it considers its backyard from the Soviet era. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Even before the invasion of Ukraine, Russian President had made it clear in no uncertain terms that he was opposed to Ukraine joining NATO. Ukraine in past, has indicated willingness to join NATO. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian reconnaissance plane violates Sweden's airspace

NATO is looking towards a nordic expansion with Finland and Sweden. On the other side, the UK is sending over 8,000 troops to take part in NATO exercises across Eastern Europe. This is the largest deployment by the UK since cold war.

Russia-Ukraine: NATO & joint forces to conduct military exercises in Eastern Europe

Local media in Finland and Sweden said that both countries will express there intention of joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in May. Finnish tabloid newspaper Iltalehti and Expressen in Sweden cited sources close to the matter while reporting this.

The Nordic countries have tightened cooperation with NATO since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. But Russian invasion of Ukraine has forced both countries to reexamine their stance of military neutrality

According to Iltalehti, the leaders of Finland and Sweden plan to meet in the week of May 16 and after that publicly announce their plans to apply to join the alliance.

Gravitas: Who is winning the war in Ukraine?

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Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto declined to comment as per Reuters, but repeated his longstanding view that he would prefer Finland and Sweden made similar choices.

Swedish daily Aftonbladet reported separately, citing sources close to Swedish government offices, that the United States and Britain had promised Sweden increased military presence, more in-depth military exercises and 'strong political' support from NATO countries" during a possible NATO application process.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-21st-century-war-is-an-absurdity-un-chief-antonio-guterres-visits-destroyed-ukrainian-towns-474656">Also Read | 'In 21st century, war is an absurdity': UN chief Antonio Guterres visits destroyed Ukrainian towns</a>

The Swedish foreign ministry has declined to comment on media reports

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin said two weeks ago, while visiting her Swedish counterpart Magdalena Andersson, that she expected Finland to make its decision whether to apply for NATO membership within weeks.

Stockholm is conducting a review of security policy, which includes a view on possible NATO membership, with the results due by mid-May.

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Separately, Sweden's ruling Social Democrats are also reviewing their long-held objection to NATO membership. That is expected at the latest by May 24.

(With inputs from agencies)

Local media in Finland and Sweden said that both countries will express there intention of joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in May. Finnish tabloid newspaper Iltalehti and Expressen in Sweden cited sources close to the matter while reporting this.

Local media in Finland and Sweden said that both countries will express there intention of joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in May. Finnish tabloid newspaper Iltalehti and Expressen in Sweden cited sources close to the matter while reporting this. The Nordic countries have tightened cooperation with NATO since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. But Russian invasion of Ukraine has forced both countries to reexamine their stance of military neutrality According to Iltalehti, the leaders of Finland and Sweden plan to meet in the week of May 16 and after that publicly announce their plans to apply to join the alliance. Gravitas: Who is winning the war in Ukraine? × Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto declined to comment as per Reuters, but repeated his longstanding view that he would prefer Finland and Sweden made similar choices. Swedish daily Aftonbladet reported separately, citing sources close to Swedish government offices, that the United States and Britain had promised Sweden increased military presence, more in-depth military exercises and 'strong political' support from NATO countries" during a possible NATO application process. Also Read | 'In 21st century, war is an absurdity': UN chief Antonio Guterres visits destroyed Ukrainian towns The Swedish foreign ministry has declined to comment on media reports Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin said two weeks ago, while visiting her Swedish counterpart Magdalena Andersson, that she expected Finland to make its decision whether to apply for NATO membership within weeks. Stockholm is conducting a review of security policy, which includes a view on possible NATO membership, with the results due by mid-May. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Separately, Sweden's ruling Social Democrats are also reviewing their long-held objection to NATO membership. That is expected at the latest by May 24. (With inputs from agencies)

Finland, Sweden will begin NATO membership process in May, says local media

China on Friday (April 29) accused the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) of messing up in Europe and stirring conflicts.

Earlier, British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss had warned that's China failure to play by global rules would cut short its rise as a superpower and said the West should ensure that Taiwan can defend itself.

During a speech at Mansion House in London, she said, "Countries must play by the rules and that includes China."

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After her speech, spokesman for China’s ministry of foreign affairs, Wang Wenbin said that NATO has “wantonly waged wars and dropped bombs in sovereign states, killing and displacing innocent civilians.”

“NATO, a military organisation in the North Atlantic, has in recent years come to the Asia-Pacific region to throw its weight around and stir up conflicts,” Wang said.

“Nato has messed up Europe. Is it now trying to mess up the Asia-Pacific and even the world?”

The United Kingdom, dwarfed economically and militarily by China, is the world's sixth-largest economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-is-redrawing-blocs-energy-map-to-overcome-its-reliance-on-russia-474904">EU is redrawing bloc's energy map to overcome its reliance on Russia</a>

Adding that China's further rise was not inevitable, Truss said "They will not continue to rise if they do not play by the rules. China needs trade with the G7. We (the Group of Seven) represent around half of the global economy. And we have choices," she said.

"We have shown with Russia the kind of choices that we're prepared to make when international rules are violated."

Defending China's stance on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Wenbin said “We have always made independent judgments based on the merits of the case.”

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has also asked China to persuade Russia to help end the war in Ukraine.

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"We need to pre-empt threats in the Indo-Pacific, working with allies like Japan and Australia to ensure that the Pacific is protected," Truss said.

"We must ensure that democracies like Taiwan are able to defend themselves," she added.

The West has expressed concerns that China can take advantage of the Ukraine crisis to invade Taiwan, which it claims is a part of the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Friday (April 29) accused the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) of messing up in Europe and stirring conflicts. Earlier, British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss had warned that's China failure to play by global rules would cut short its rise as a superpower and said the West should ensure that Taiwan can defend itself.

China on Friday (April 29) accused the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) of messing up in Europe and stirring conflicts. Earlier, British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss had warned that's China failure to play by global rules would cut short its rise as a superpower and said the West should ensure that Taiwan can defend itself. During a speech at Mansion House in London, she said, "Countries must play by the rules and that includes China." After her speech, spokesman for China’s ministry of foreign affairs, Wang Wenbin said that NATO has “wantonly waged wars and dropped bombs in sovereign states, killing and displacing innocent civilians.” “NATO, a military organisation in the North Atlantic, has in recent years come to the Asia-Pacific region to throw its weight around and stir up conflicts,” Wang said. “Nato has messed up Europe. Is it now trying to mess up the Asia-Pacific and even the world?” The United Kingdom, dwarfed economically and militarily by China, is the world's sixth-largest economy. Also read | EU is redrawing bloc's energy map to overcome its reliance on Russia Adding that China's further rise was not inevitable, Truss said "They will not continue to rise if they do not play by the rules. China needs trade with the G7. We (the Group of Seven) represent around half of the global economy. And we have choices," she said. "We have shown with Russia the kind of choices that we're prepared to make when international rules are violated." Defending China's stance on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Wenbin said “We have always made independent judgments based on the merits of the case.” US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has also asked China to persuade Russia to help end the war in Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE "We need to pre-empt threats in the Indo-Pacific, working with allies like Japan and Australia to ensure that the Pacific is protected," Truss said. "We must ensure that democracies like Taiwan are able to defend themselves," she added. The West has expressed concerns that China can take advantage of the Ukraine crisis to invade Taiwan, which it claims is a part of the country. (With inputs from agencies)

China accuses NATO of messing up Europe, stirring conflicts

Sweden and Finland are likely to submit bids for membership. NATO is ready to welcome two members and the NATO chief said Finland and Sweden will join NATO quite soon.

NATO's Nordic expansion: Finland & Sweden prepares to join NATO

In the upcoming summer the North Atlantic Treaty Organization could add two more Nordic countries into the group. Now Finland and Sweden are preparing to submit their membership bids for NATO.

NATO chief says 'Finland and Sweden to join NATO soon'

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.&nbsp;

With Russia's invasion of Ukraine entering its third month, Kyiv's troops are doing what Moscow's President Vladimir Putin wanted to prevent.

Defence experts believe that the Ukrainian army has fended off Russia longer than Putin expected and is absorbing the advantages of Western weaponry and training.

Most countries that are a part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) are supplying both military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.

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According to US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, “We believe they can win if they have the right equipment, the right support.”

The Pentagon chief has said that the US is "going to keep moving heaven and earth so that we can meet" Kyiv's needs.

With an additional aid of $713 million in foreign military financing for Ukraine, Washington hopes to weaken Russia to such an extent that it will be able to attack any other country.

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>

Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's foreign minister, has said, “It will be true to say that the United States now leads the effort in ensuring this transition of Ukraine to Western-style weapons, in arranging training for Ukrainian soldiers.”

Expressing his disappointment, he added “I only regret that it didn’t happen a month or two months ago from the very beginning of the war,” he&nbsp;

After meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "In terms of Russia’s war aims, Russia has already failed and Ukraine has already succeeded."&nbsp;

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Before invading Ukraine, Putin had said he will not tolerate the West's efforts to make Ukraine a de facto member of NATO.

Although Zelensky had initiated the process to join the European Union as well as NATO, it took a backseat after Russia demanded that Ukraine forswear them during the peace talks that took place in Belarus.

Ukraine's prospects for mounting a successful defence have been bolstered by its closeness to NATO which has increased after Russia invaded the country on February 24.&nbsp;

(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. With Russia's invasion of Ukraine entering its third month, Kyiv's troops are doing what Moscow's President Vladimir Putin wanted to prevent. Defence experts believe that the Ukrainian army has fended off Russia longer than Putin expected and is absorbing the advantages of Western weaponry and training. Most countries that are a part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) are supplying both military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. According to US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, “We believe they can win if they have the right equipment, the right support.” The Pentagon chief has said that the US is "going to keep moving heaven and earth so that we can meet" Kyiv's needs. With an additional aid of $713 million in foreign military financing for Ukraine, Washington hopes to weaken Russia to such an extent that it will be able to attack any other country. Also read | United Kingdom's defence ministry investigating Russian hack targeting its army recruits Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's foreign minister, has said, “It will be true to say that the United States now leads the effort in ensuring this transition of Ukraine to Western-style weapons, in arranging training for Ukrainian soldiers.” Expressing his disappointment, he added “I only regret that it didn’t happen a month or two months ago from the very beginning of the war,” he After meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "In terms of Russia’s war aims, Russia has already failed and Ukraine has already succeeded." Watch WION live TV here: Before invading Ukraine, Putin had said he will not tolerate the West's efforts to make Ukraine a de facto member of NATO. Although Zelensky had initiated the process to join the European Union as well as NATO, it took a backseat after Russia demanded that Ukraine forswear them during the peace talks that took place in Belarus. Ukraine's prospects for mounting a successful defence have been bolstered by its closeness to NATO which has increased after Russia invaded the country on February 24. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's army is doing what exactly Russian President Vladimir Putin wanted to prevent

India's military expenditure and China's booming global arms export market

Ukraine war: Russia's 'special military operation' enters third month

The Finnish finance minister is hoping that Finland will be part of NATO as soon in this summer. Finland's minister of economic affairs is on a visit to New Delhi, he sat down for an exclusive interview with our correspondent Siddhant Sibal and spoke about Finland's NATO plans and more.

Finland will be a part of NATO this summer, says Finnish finance minister Mila Lintila

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

Recently, WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal spoke to Finnish cabinet minister Mika Linktila about the Ukraine-Russia crisis. Mika Linktila has said Finland will be a member of NATO this summer and has strongly condemned the Russian attack on Ukraine. Watch the full conversation!

'Finland will be a member of NATO this summer,' says Finnish Cabinet Minister Mika Linktila

Russia warned Sweden and Finland that if they joined NATO, then it will deploy nuclear weapons in hypersonic missiles in the heart of Europe. Russia's invasion of Ukraine is pushing Finland and Sweden towards NATO

Russia warns of Nuke and Hypersonic deployment to Baltic

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.&nbsp;

Russian state television on Friday (April 15) said that Moscow has entered World War Three against the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

The bold statement was made in regards to Russia's invasion of Ukraine which President Vladimir Putin calls a ''special operation.''

Addressing the viewers of Rossiya 1, presenter Olga Skabeyeva said ''Many people are asking could it not be done more quickly?''

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And here we have it - in a rant seemingly aimed at explaining to viewers why the "special operation in Ukraine" is taking so long, Russian state TV presenter Olga Skabeyeva says her country is fighting World War Three against Nato 
 
I've added subtitles <a href="https://t.co/MQW0UfiQso">pic.twitter.com/MQW0UfiQso</a>
— Francis Scarr (@francska1) <a href="https://twitter.com/francska1/status/1514612770594906117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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''Everyone would like a conclusive victory. Everyone would like all the objectives set to be implemented.''

''Otherwise, on the whole, it is impossible to accept the special operation which we started,'' she said as per an English translation by 'The Independent'.

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''One can safely say call what it has escalated into World War Three. That's absolutely for sure.''

''Right now, we're definitely against NATO's infrastructure, if not the alliance itself. We need to recognise that,'' she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moskva-russian-navys-black-sea-fleet-flagship-has-sunk-defence-ministry-471089" hreflang="en">Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry</a>

Her comments came after Ukraine's missile strike destroyed the Soviet-era flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet.

Earlier, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said ''NATO is a defensive Alliance that is there to defend and to fortify and NATO will not be a threat to anyone that is not attacking NATO.''

''We would not be concerned that the expansion of a defensive alliance would do anything other than promoting stability on the European continent," he added.

Russia has warned NATO that if Sweden and Finland join the group it will further bolster its security.

(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. Russian state television on Friday (April 15) said that Moscow has entered World War Three against the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The bold statement was made in regards to Russia's invasion of Ukraine which President Vladimir Putin calls a ''special operation.'' Addressing the viewers of Rossiya 1, presenter Olga Skabeyeva said ''Many people are asking could it not be done more quickly?'' And here we have it - in a rant seemingly aimed at explaining to viewers why the "special operation in Ukraine" is taking so long, Russian state TV presenter Olga Skabeyeva says her country is fighting World War Three against Nato I've added subtitles pic.twitter.com/MQW0UfiQso — Francis Scarr (@francska1) April 14, 2022 × ''Everyone would like a conclusive victory. Everyone would like all the objectives set to be implemented.'' ''Otherwise, on the whole, it is impossible to accept the special operation which we started,'' she said as per an English translation by 'The Independent'. ''One can safely say call what it has escalated into World War Three. That's absolutely for sure.'' ''Right now, we're definitely against NATO's infrastructure, if not the alliance itself. We need to recognise that,'' she added. Also read | Moskva, Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet flagship, has sunk: Defence ministry Her comments came after Ukraine's missile strike destroyed the Soviet-era flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet. Earlier, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said ''NATO is a defensive Alliance that is there to defend and to fortify and NATO will not be a threat to anyone that is not attacking NATO.'' ''We would not be concerned that the expansion of a defensive alliance would do anything other than promoting stability on the European continent," he added. Russia has warned NATO that if Sweden and Finland join the group it will further bolster its security. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Russian state TV says Moscow has entered World War 3 against NATO

Even as Russia gets accused of using phosphorous bombs in the war, the French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has asked to stop sending weapons to Ukraine on Wednesday, said media reports. &nbsp;

The outspoken nationalist, who also seems to have ties with Russia and has been dubbed as an admirer of President Vladimir Putin, has called for a rapprochement between NATO and Russia when the war comes to an end.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-french-president-macron-refuses-to-term-russian-attack-on-ukraine-as-genocide-470783" hreflang="en">Macron refuses to term Russian attack on Ukraine as ‘genocide'</a>

Not just this, Le Pen has also said if she wins, she would ensure France pulls out of military command of the NATO and reduces support to the European Union (EU). &nbsp;

She and President Emmanuel Macron are competing in ongoing presidential elections of France. &nbsp;

On being asked about military aid to Ukraine, Le Pen said she would continue defence and intelligence support. "(But) I'm more reserved about direct arms deliveries. Why? Because ... The line is thin between aid and becoming a co-belligerent," she added.

Watch:&nbsp;France completes installation of first offshore wind turbine

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The far-right leader cited concerns about an "escalation of this conflict that could bring a whole number of countries into a military commitment." &nbsp;&nbsp;

France should take an independent path from NATO alliance, Le Pen added. She also said NATO should seek a 'strategic rapprochement' with Russia when war is over. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as Russia gets accused of using phosphorous bombs in the war, the French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has asked to stop sending weapons to Ukraine on Wednesday, said media reports.

Even as Russia gets accused of using phosphorous bombs in the war, the French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has asked to stop sending weapons to Ukraine on Wednesday, said media reports. The outspoken nationalist, who also seems to have ties with Russia and has been dubbed as an admirer of President Vladimir Putin, has called for a rapprochement between NATO and Russia when the war comes to an end. Also Read: Macron refuses to term Russian attack on Ukraine as ‘genocide' Not just this, Le Pen has also said if she wins, she would ensure France pulls out of military command of the NATO and reduces support to the European Union (EU). She and President Emmanuel Macron are competing in ongoing presidential elections of France. On being asked about military aid to Ukraine, Le Pen said she would continue defence and intelligence support. "(But) I'm more reserved about direct arms deliveries. Why? Because ... The line is thin between aid and becoming a co-belligerent," she added. Watch: France completes installation of first offshore wind turbine × The far-right leader cited concerns about an "escalation of this conflict that could bring a whole number of countries into a military commitment." France should take an independent path from NATO alliance, Le Pen added. She also said NATO should seek a 'strategic rapprochement' with Russia when war is over. (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t send weapons to Ukraine, look for rapprochement between NATO, Russia after war, says France's Le Pen

It is the final round of presidential battle in the France and war of words between the top two contenders is intensifying by the day. As Macron tries to gather more support by softening its domestic policies, the far-right challenger Marine Le Pen has proposed to change France's foreign policy.

French Elections 2022: Marine Le Pen wants France out of NATO

One of&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies warned&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;on Thursday that if&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;and&nbsp;Finland&nbsp;joined the U.S.-led military alliance then&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would have to bolster its defences in the region, including by deploying&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons.

Finland, which shares a 1,300-km (810-mile) border with&nbsp;Russia,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;are considering&nbsp;joining the&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;alliance. Finland&nbsp;will make a decision in the next few weeks, Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Wednesday.

Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of&nbsp;Russia's Security Council, said that should&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;and&nbsp;Finland&nbsp;join&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;then&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would have to strengthen its land, naval&nbsp;and&nbsp;air forces in the Baltic Sea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-the-world-comes-back-to-its-senses-world-treats-black-and-white-lives-unequally-says-who-chief-470945">'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief</a>

Medvedev also explicitly raised the&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;threat by saying that there could be no more talk of a "nuclear&nbsp;free" Baltic - where Russia has its Kaliningrad exclave sandwiched between Poland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lithuania.

"There can be no more talk of any&nbsp;nuclear–free status for the Baltic - the balance must be restored," said Medvedev, who was president from 2008 to 2012.

"Until today,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has not taken such measures&nbsp;and&nbsp;was not going to," Medvedev said. "If our hand&nbsp;is forced well... take note it wasn't us who proposed this," he added.

Lithuania said&nbsp;Russia's threats were nothing new&nbsp;and&nbsp;that Moscow had deployed&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons to Kaliningrad long before the war in Ukraine.

The possible accession of Finland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;into&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;- founded in 1949 to provide collective Western security against the Soviet Union - would be one of the biggest European strategic consequences of the war in Ukraine.

Finland&nbsp;gained independence from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in 1917&nbsp;and&nbsp;fought two wars against it during World War Two during which it lost some territory to Moscow. On Thursday, Finland&nbsp;announced a military exercise in Western Finland&nbsp;with the participation of forces from Britain, the United States, Latvia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Estonia.

Sweden&nbsp;has not fought a war for 200 years&nbsp;and&nbsp;post-war foreign policy has focused on supporting democracy internationally, multilateral dialogue&nbsp;and&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;disarmament.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia

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Kaliningrad

Kaliningrad is of particular importance in the northern European theatre. Formerly the Prussian port of Koenigsberg, capital of East Prussia, it lies less than 1400 km from London&nbsp;and&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;and&nbsp;500 km from Berlin.

Russia&nbsp;said in 2018 it had deployed Iskander missiles to Kaliningrad, which was captured by the Red Army in April 1945&nbsp;and&nbsp;ceded to the Soviet Union at the Potsdam conference.

The Iskander, known as SS-26 Stone by&nbsp;NATO, is a short-range tactical ballistic missile system that can carry both conventional&nbsp;and&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;warheads.

Its official range is 500 km but some Western military sources suspect its range may be much greater.

"No sane person wants higher prices&nbsp;and&nbsp;higher taxes, increased tensions along borders, Iskanders, hypersonics&nbsp;and&nbsp;ships with&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons literally at arm's length from their own home," Medvedev said.

"Let's hope that the common sense of our northern neighbors will win," said Medvedev.

Lithuanian Defence Minister Arvydas Anusauskas said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had deployed&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons to Kaliningrad even before the war.

"Nuclear&nbsp;weapons have always been kept in Kaliningrad ... the international community, the countries in the region, are perfectly aware of this," Anusauskas was quoted as saying by BNS. "They use it as a threat."

Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine has killed thousands of people, displaced millions&nbsp;and&nbsp;raised fears of a wider confrontation between&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;the United States - by far the world's two biggest&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;powers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-russias-tit-for-tat-move-slaps-sanctions-on-us-canada-470856">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move;&nbsp;slaps sanctions on US, Canada</a>

Putin says the "special military operation" in Ukraine is necessary because the United States was using Ukraine to threaten&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Moscow had to defend against the persecution of&nbsp;Russian-speaking people by Ukraine.

Ukraine says it is fighting against an imperial-style land&nbsp;grab&nbsp;and&nbsp;that Putin's claims of genocide are nonsense. US&nbsp;President Joe Biden says Putin is a war criminal&nbsp;and&nbsp;a dictator.

Putin says the conflict in Ukraine as part of a much broader confrontation with the United States which he says is trying to enforce its hegemony even as its dominance over the international order declines.

One of Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies warned NATO on Thursday that if Sweden and Finland joined the U.S.-led military alliance then Russia would have to bolster its defences in the region, including by deploying nuclear weapons.

One of Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies warned NATO on Thursday that if Sweden and Finland joined the U.S.-led military alliance then Russia would have to bolster its defences in the region, including by deploying nuclear weapons. Finland, which shares a 1,300-km (810-mile) border with Russia, and Sweden are considering joining the NATO alliance. Finland will make a decision in the next few weeks, Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Wednesday. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, said that should Sweden and Finland join NATO then Russia would have to strengthen its land, naval and air forces in the Baltic Sea. Also read | 'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief Medvedev also explicitly raised the nuclear threat by saying that there could be no more talk of a "nuclear free" Baltic - where Russia has its Kaliningrad exclave sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania. "There can be no more talk of any nuclear–free status for the Baltic - the balance must be restored," said Medvedev, who was president from 2008 to 2012. "Until today, Russia has not taken such measures and was not going to," Medvedev said. "If our hand is forced well... take note it wasn't us who proposed this," he added. Lithuania said Russia's threats were nothing new and that Moscow had deployed nuclear weapons to Kaliningrad long before the war in Ukraine. The possible accession of Finland and Sweden into NATO - founded in 1949 to provide collective Western security against the Soviet Union - would be one of the biggest European strategic consequences of the war in Ukraine. Finland gained independence from Russia in 1917 and fought two wars against it during World War Two during which it lost some territory to Moscow. On Thursday, Finland announced a military exercise in Western Finland with the participation of forces from Britain, the United States, Latvia and Estonia. Sweden has not fought a war for 200 years and post-war foreign policy has focused on supporting democracy internationally, multilateral dialogue and nuclear disarmament. Watch | Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia Kaliningrad Kaliningrad is of particular importance in the northern European theatre. Formerly the Prussian port of Koenigsberg, capital of East Prussia, it lies less than 1400 km from London and Paris and 500 km from Berlin. Russia said in 2018 it had deployed Iskander missiles to Kaliningrad, which was captured by the Red Army in April 1945 and ceded to the Soviet Union at the Potsdam conference. The Iskander, known as SS-26 Stone by NATO, is a short-range tactical ballistic missile system that can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. Its official range is 500 km but some Western military sources suspect its range may be much greater. "No sane person wants higher prices and higher taxes, increased tensions along borders, Iskanders, hypersonics and ships with nuclear weapons literally at arm's length from their own home," Medvedev said. "Let's hope that the common sense of our northern neighbors will win," said Medvedev. Lithuanian Defence Minister Arvydas Anusauskas said Russia had deployed nuclear weapons to Kaliningrad even before the war. "Nuclear weapons have always been kept in Kaliningrad ... the international community, the countries in the region, are perfectly aware of this," Anusauskas was quoted as saying by BNS. "They use it as a threat." Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine has killed thousands of people, displaced millions and raised fears of a wider confrontation between Russia and the United States - by far the world's two biggest nuclear powers. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move; slaps sanctions on US, Canada Putin says the "special military operation" in Ukraine is necessary because the United States was using Ukraine to threaten Russia and Moscow had to defend against the persecution of Russian-speaking people by Ukraine. Ukraine says it is fighting against an imperial-style land grab and that Putin's claims of genocide are nonsense. US President Joe Biden says Putin is a war criminal and a dictator. Putin says the conflict in Ukraine as part of a much broader confrontation with the United States which he says is trying to enforce its hegemony even as its dominance over the international order declines.

Russia warns of nuclear deployment if Sweden and Finland join NATO

Finland and Sweden which have traditionally remained neutral are now anxious to join the NATO alliance. The Russia-Ukraine war has fundamentally changed Europe's security architecture. To get more details, we're joined by William Courtney of RAND corporation.

Tectonic shift in Geo-Politics: Russia's invasion pushes Finland, Sweden toward NATO

Russia's Ukraine invasion has sparked concerns in Finland. The Nordic country is preparing for a possible conflict with Russia. Its citizens are learning how to use a gun. the government is stockpiling essentials. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia

The presidential challenger Marine Le Pen pitches her foreign policy agenda. While Le Pen wants closer NATO-Russia ties, her agenda sent shockwaves across Europe.

French Election 2022: Marine Le Pen's agenda sends shockwaves through Europe

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe.&nbsp;

For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible.&nbsp;

As quoted by The Times, US officials said that NATO membership for both Nordic countries was "a topic of conversation and multiple sessions" during talks between the alliance's foreign ministers of Sweden and Finland last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-boris-johnsons-visit-us-says-joe-biden-doesnt-currently-have-any-plans-to-travel-to-ukraine-470275">After Boris Johnson's visit, US says Joe Biden 'doesn't currently have any plans' to travel to Ukraine</a>

However, Russia has warned both nations about the potential bids. On Monday (April 11), the Kremlin said that the possible accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO military alliance would not bring stability to Europe.&nbsp;

"We have repeatedly said that the alliance remains a tool geared towards confrontation … and its further expansion will not bring additional security to the European continent," news agency Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.&nbsp;

He made the remarks to the reporters during a conference call after he was asked about the possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-india-not-violating-any-sanctions-by-importing-russian-oil-470364">US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil</a>

NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, has said it would be possible to allow Finland and Sweden in "quite quickly" but NATO has not commented on what a fast-track process would be.&nbsp;

Atlantic Council Senior Fellow, Rachel Rizzo said in case both the countries apply for membership, their accession would need to be agreed by all 30 allies.&nbsp;

“They work so closely with NATO in terms of exercises and in light of the Russian invasion, enhanced intelligence sharing that I do think that the relationship that NATO has already with Finland and Sweden means that there is a certain amount of protection that those two countries already have," she said.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe. For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created a sense of urgency among the other countries to strengthen their defence capabilities, especially in Europe. For example, recent reports stated that Finland and Sweden are poised to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as soon as possible. As quoted by The Times, US officials said that NATO membership for both Nordic countries was "a topic of conversation and multiple sessions" during talks between the alliance's foreign ministers of Sweden and Finland last week. ALSO READ | After Boris Johnson's visit, US says Joe Biden 'doesn't currently have any plans' to travel to Ukraine However, Russia has warned both nations about the potential bids. On Monday (April 11), the Kremlin said that the possible accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO military alliance would not bring stability to Europe. "We have repeatedly said that the alliance remains a tool geared towards confrontation … and its further expansion will not bring additional security to the European continent," news agency Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying. He made the remarks to the reporters during a conference call after he was asked about the possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO. ALSO READ | US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, has said it would be possible to allow Finland and Sweden in "quite quickly" but NATO has not commented on what a fast-track process would be. Atlantic Council Senior Fellow, Rachel Rizzo said in case both the countries apply for membership, their accession would need to be agreed by all 30 allies. “They work so closely with NATO in terms of exercises and in light of the Russian invasion, enhanced intelligence sharing that I do think that the relationship that NATO has already with Finland and Sweden means that there is a certain amount of protection that those two countries already have," she said. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden × (With inputs from agencies)

'Will not bring security to Europe': Russia warns Finland and Sweden against joining NATO

After over a month of relentless bombardment and an assault which left the city of Mariupol completely destroyed, Russian forces are on the brink of capturing the city completely. Ukrainian forces in Mariupol have posted on Facebook that they were completely surrounded by Russian troops.

Russia poised to take Mariupol, where is military aid pledged by US, NATO?

The ongoing war in Ukraine due to the Russian invasion is pushing neutral countries closer to NATO. Sweden and Finland are mulling joining NATO.

Ukraine war pushes neutral countries closer to NATO as Sweden, Finland mull joining NATO

Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that NATO is planning for a permanent military presence on its border as per a report by 'The Telegraph'.

According to Stoltenberg, the move will reflect "the long-term consequences" of the actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He said that NATO is "in the midst of a very fundamental transformation" to battle future Russian aggression.

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"What we see now is a new reality, a new normal for European security. Therefore, we have now asked our military commanders to provide options for what we call a reset, a longer-term adaptation of NATO," he added.

Decisions on the reset will be made at a NATO summit to be held in Madrid in June. Stoltenberg recently said he would extend his term as head of the alliance by a year.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine led Western nations to rethink their defense policies. It has also triggered Europe's largest refugee crisis since World War Two.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-meets-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-in-kyiv-469759" hreflang="en">UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv</a>

Ukraine has welcomed new pressure on Moscow, but it continues to push for harsher sanctions and more heavy weaponry.

After meeting NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said, "Either you help us now, and I'm speaking about days, not weeks, or your help will come too late and many people will die, many civilians will lose their homes, many villages will be destroyed."&nbsp;

Britain said Friday it was sending Ukraine more "high-grade military equipment" including Starstreak anti-aircraft missiles and 800 anti-tank missiles. Meanwhile, Slovakia said it had given Ukraine an S-300 air defence system.

EU's chief diplomat Josep Borrell said the 27-nation bloc will supply 7.5 million euros to train Ukrainian prosecutors to investigate war crimes, which Russia is accused of committing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that NATO is planning for a permanent military presence on its border as per a report by 'The Telegraph'. According to Stoltenberg, the move will reflect "the long-term consequences" of the actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that NATO is planning for a permanent military presence on its border as per a report by 'The Telegraph'. According to Stoltenberg, the move will reflect "the long-term consequences" of the actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He said that NATO is "in the midst of a very fundamental transformation" to battle future Russian aggression. "What we see now is a new reality, a new normal for European security. Therefore, we have now asked our military commanders to provide options for what we call a reset, a longer-term adaptation of NATO," he added. Decisions on the reset will be made at a NATO summit to be held in Madrid in June. Stoltenberg recently said he would extend his term as head of the alliance by a year. Russia's invasion of Ukraine led Western nations to rethink their defense policies. It has also triggered Europe's largest refugee crisis since World War Two. Also read | UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv Ukraine has welcomed new pressure on Moscow, but it continues to push for harsher sanctions and more heavy weaponry. After meeting NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said, "Either you help us now, and I'm speaking about days, not weeks, or your help will come too late and many people will die, many civilians will lose their homes, many villages will be destroyed." Britain said Friday it was sending Ukraine more "high-grade military equipment" including Starstreak anti-aircraft missiles and 800 anti-tank missiles. Meanwhile, Slovakia said it had given Ukraine an S-300 air defence system. EU's chief diplomat Josep Borrell said the 27-nation bloc will supply 7.5 million euros to train Ukrainian prosecutors to investigate war crimes, which Russia is accused of committing. (With inputs from agencies)

Jens Stoltenberg says NATO is planning for permanent military presence on its border

NATO and the US secretary of state announced military aid to Ukraine and said more weapons are on their way to Ukraine. For more analysis and information, we're joined by VOA's correspondent Jessica Stone.

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