A fire that broke out on a car ferry carrying 300 people off Sweden's coast on Monday has been extinguished, Swedish maritime authorities said. The ship is bein towed to port and is due back in the Swedish port of Nynashamn on Tuesday morning. The blaze reportedly started on a refrigeration lorry on the car deck of the Stena Scandica, which was sailing from Sweden to Latvia.

"The fire is out," Swedish Maritime Administration spokeswoman Lisa Mjorning told AFP.

"The ferry will be towed to port in the next three to four hours," she said, adding that it would be towed to Nynashamn, south of Stockholm.

Earlier reports suggested that passengers were being evacuated, but later it was confirmed that the 300 people on board had remained on the vessel. "There are no injuries on board and there has been no evacuation," she said.

A spokesman for the company Stena Line operating the ferry had said it was "a limited fire...concentrated to a cooling truck on the car deck" and that there had been "mainly smoke".

The Swedish Maritime Administration had sent three helicopters and seven vessels to the vessel, which was located off the island of Gotska Sandon on Sweden's southeastern coast.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A fire that broke out on a car ferry carrying 300 people off Sweden's coast on Monday has been extinguished, Swedish maritime authorities said. The ship is bein towed to port and is due back in the Swedish port of Nynashamn on Tuesday morning.

A fire that broke out on a car ferry carrying 300 people off Sweden's coast on Monday has been extinguished, Swedish maritime authorities said. The ship is bein towed to port and is due back in the Swedish port of Nynashamn on Tuesday morning. The blaze reportedly started on a refrigeration lorry on the car deck of the Stena Scandica, which was sailing from Sweden to Latvia. "The fire is out," Swedish Maritime Administration spokeswoman Lisa Mjorning told AFP. "The ferry will be towed to port in the next three to four hours," she said, adding that it would be towed to Nynashamn, south of Stockholm. Earlier reports suggested that passengers were being evacuated, but later it was confirmed that the 300 people on board had remained on the vessel. "There are no injuries on board and there has been no evacuation," she said. A spokesman for the company Stena Line operating the ferry had said it was "a limited fire...concentrated to a cooling truck on the car deck" and that there had been "mainly smoke". The Swedish Maritime Administration had sent three helicopters and seven vessels to the vessel, which was located off the island of Gotska Sandon on Sweden's southeastern coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Fire on ferry off Sweden with 300 aboard has been extinguished

The World Water week is the leading conference on Global water issues held every year since 1991. This year the event will take place from August 23 to September 1 in Sweden and for the first time it will be hosted in a hybrid manner.

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At least one person was killed and another hospitalised after a shooting incident at a shopping mall in Sweden.

A man, who was initially wounded during the attack at a shopping centre in the southern city of Malmo, died later&nbsp;while a woman was injured, police said. The suspected shooter has been arrested as police ruled out the possibility of a terror attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ohio-police-hunt-for-39-year-old-gunman-who-killed-4-in-shooting-spree-504438">Also Read:&nbsp;Ohio police hunt for 39-year-old gunman who killed 4 in shooting spree</a>

Reports claim the shooter was a teenage boy&nbsp;as police declared "immediate danger" to the public is over. Authorities moved quickly to cordon off the area as the shooting was reported. The police have launched an investigation into the incident and are questioning witnesses, reports said.

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According to the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention, Sweden ranks "very high" in gun homicide compared to other European countries with nearly four deaths per million inhabitants per year. The average death rate in Europe is approximately 1.6 deaths per million inhabitants, the report said.

The report further added&nbsp;that gun homicide in Sweden was linked to criminal gangs in "disadvantaged areas". After the latest shooting incident, Swedish police informed 44 people have been shot dead in the country involving suspected crime gang connections.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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At least one person was killed and another hospitalised after a shooting incident at a shopping mall in Sweden. A man, who was initially wounded during the attack at a shopping centre in the southern city of Malmo, died later while a woman was injured, police said.

At least one person was killed and another hospitalised after a shooting incident at a shopping mall in Sweden. A man, who was initially wounded during the attack at a shopping centre in the southern city of Malmo, died later while a woman was injured, police said. The suspected shooter has been arrested as police ruled out the possibility of a terror attack. Also Read: Ohio police hunt for 39-year-old gunman who killed 4 in shooting spree Reports claim the shooter was a teenage boy as police declared "immediate danger" to the public is over. Authorities moved quickly to cordon off the area as the shooting was reported. The police have launched an investigation into the incident and are questioning witnesses, reports said. Watch: Three injured in shooting at 'Six flags' theme parks in Illinois According to the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention, Sweden ranks "very high" in gun homicide compared to other European countries with nearly four deaths per million inhabitants per year. The average death rate in Europe is approximately 1.6 deaths per million inhabitants, the report said. The report further added that gun homicide in Sweden was linked to criminal gangs in "disadvantaged areas". After the latest shooting incident, Swedish police informed 44 people have been shot dead in the country involving suspected crime gang connections. (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.

One killed in Sweden mall shooting; suspect teenage boy arrested

A week after Senate ratified the entrance of Nordic countries Finland and Sweden into North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the&nbsp;instruments of ratification, confirming the accession.

The expansion of NATO, the world's most powerful military alliance, comes in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Biden said, "It was and is a watershed moment. I believe in the alliance and for the greater security and stability not only of Europe and the United States but of the world."

Taking a dig at Russian President Vladimir Putin, the US president, speaking from the East Room of the White House added, ″Putin thought he could break us apart. Our alliance is closer than ever, it is more united than ever and after Finland and Sweden join, we will be stronger than ever.”

Taking to Twitter, Biden reaffirmed his formal backing to the two Nordic countries. "Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO," he tweeted.&nbsp;

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Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. 
 
Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO.
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Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-finland-sweden-get-formal-invites-to-join-nato-493057">&nbsp;Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO</a>

After Biden's signature, Sweden and Finland need the other allies to sign the&nbsp;ratification to complete the formal process. The accession will be complete only after all the 30 NATO allies have signed the form that the two countries will be protected under Article Five of NATO, where an attack on one ally is deemed an attack on all.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that both Nordic countries had sped up their process to join the&nbsp;nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, earlier this year.

Prior to the invasion,&nbsp;Putin had repeatedly warned that the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and&nbsp;contravenes&nbsp;assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-nato-against-inclusion-of-finland-sweden-440093">Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

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A week after Senate ratified the entrance of Nordic countries Finland and Sweden into North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the instruments of ratification, confirming the accession.

A week after Senate ratified the entrance of Nordic countries Finland and Sweden into North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the instruments of ratification, confirming the accession. The expansion of NATO, the world's most powerful military alliance, comes in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Biden said, "It was and is a watershed moment. I believe in the alliance and for the greater security and stability not only of Europe and the United States but of the world." Taking a dig at Russian President Vladimir Putin, the US president, speaking from the East Room of the White House added, ″Putin thought he could break us apart. Our alliance is closer than ever, it is more united than ever and after Finland and Sweden join, we will be stronger than ever.” Taking to Twitter, Biden reaffirmed his formal backing to the two Nordic countries. "Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO," he tweeted. Finland and Sweden will make NATO stronger. Today, I signed the U.S. Instruments of Ratification, making the United States the 23rd Ally to approve their membership in NATO. — President Biden (@POTUS) August 9, 2022 × Read more: Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO After Biden's signature, Sweden and Finland need the other allies to sign the ratification to complete the formal process. The accession will be complete only after all the 30 NATO allies have signed the form that the two countries will be protected under Article Five of NATO, where an attack on one ally is deemed an attack on all. It is pertinent to note that both Nordic countries had sped up their process to join the nuclear-armed alliance after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, earlier this year. Prior to the invasion, Putin had repeatedly warned that the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and contravenes assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. Read more: Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Joe Biden signs documents supporting Sweden and Finland's bid to join NATO

US senators have approved Finland and Sweden's accession to NATO. More than half of all NATO member parliaments have ratified the alliance's Nordic expansion. Palki Sharma gets you the latest on the Ukraine war front.

Gravitas: US senate ratifies Finland & Sweden's NATO accession

The U.S. Senate ratified adding Sweden and Finland to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a move aimed at bolstering the military alliance after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

U.S. Senate ratifies NATO membership for Finland and Sweden

The United States Senate ratified Finland and Sweden's entry into the NATO, strongly backing the expansion of the transatlantic alliance in the shadow of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Senate voted 95 to 1 in favor of Finland and Sweden's accession, making US the 23rd country to formally endorse the Nordic countries.

US Senate votes 95 to 1 to Finland and Sweden's NATO bid

Mutual of Omaha have ended their sponsorship of Henrik Stenson, the American company said on Wednesday, a week after the Swede joined the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational Series. Stenson, who won the 2016 British Open with a record score, was stripped of Team Europe`s Ryder Cup captaincy last week, hours before he announced his decision to join the Saudi-backed breakaway league. Stenson competed wearing a Mutual of Omaha cap and was also the company`s golf ambassador at the Open earlier this month.

"Mutual of Omaha and Henrik Stenson have mutually decided to end their sponsorship relationship, effective immediately," a spokesperson said. Reuters has reached out to Stenson for comment. The U.S. and European based Tours have banned and fined anyone joining the LIV Series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-basketballer-brittney-griner-claims-she-didnt-intend-to-smuggle-drugs-into-russia-501186">US basketballer Brittney Griner claims she didn't intend to smuggle drugs into Russia</a>

Bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf has already roped in six-times major winner Phil Mickelson, former world number ones Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka, as well as former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau. Critics of the new series say it amounts to `sportswashing` by a nation trying to improve its reputation in light of its history of human rights abuses.

Mutual of Omaha have ended their sponsorship of Henrik Stenson, the American company said on Wednesday, a week after the Swede joined the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational Series.

Mutual of Omaha have ended their sponsorship of Henrik Stenson, the American company said on Wednesday, a week after the Swede joined the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational Series. Stenson, who won the 2016 British Open with a record score, was stripped of Team Europe`s Ryder Cup captaincy last week, hours before he announced his decision to join the Saudi-backed breakaway league. Stenson competed wearing a Mutual of Omaha cap and was also the company`s golf ambassador at the Open earlier this month. "Mutual of Omaha and Henrik Stenson have mutually decided to end their sponsorship relationship, effective immediately," a spokesperson said. Reuters has reached out to Stenson for comment. The U.S. and European based Tours have banned and fined anyone joining the LIV Series. ALSO READ | US basketballer Brittney Griner claims she didn't intend to smuggle drugs into Russia Bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf has already roped in six-times major winner Phil Mickelson, former world number ones Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka, as well as former U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau. Critics of the new series say it amounts to `sportswashing` by a nation trying to improve its reputation in light of its history of human rights abuses.

Mutual of Omaha ends Swedish player Henrik Stenson sponsorship after he joins LIV Golf

President Tayyip Erdogan stated on Monday that Turkiye&nbsp;might halt Finland's and Sweden's NATO membership applications if the Nordic nations break their counterterrorism commitments from last month. He also stated that he thought Sweden was "not showing a good image" at the moment. In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden asked to join the defence alliance. Turkiye, however, objected, claiming that the Nordic nations supported organisations it considers terrorists.

At the NATO summit in Madrid last month, the three nations agreed to lift Ankara's veto in exchange for commitments on counterterrorism and military exports. In order to ratify their membership applications, Turkiye&nbsp;has stated that it will strictly monitor the agreement's implementation. Erdogan told reporters on Monday before a three-way summit with Russia and Iran; "I want to reiterate once again that we will freeze the process if these countries do not take the necessary steps to fulfil our conditions. We particularly note that Sweden does not have a good image on this issue."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-three-frontrunners-in-race-to-become-next-president-after-gotabaya-resigned-497428">Sri Lanka: Three frontrunners in race to become next president after Gotabaya resigned</a>

After an agreement with Turkiye, which had previously prevented the Nordic countries from joining, NATO started the accession processes for Sweden and Finland earlier this month. Erdogan has accused both nations of supporting "terrorism" and serving as safe havens for Kurdish militants, highlighting, in particular, the PKK, an illegal organisation he has worked to suppress.&nbsp;

When asked about Erdogan's comments in Washington, State Department spokesman Ned Price did not immediately answer but instead cited Turkiye's approval of the Nordic countries' NATO membership during the NATO summit.

(with inputs from agencies)

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President Tayyip Erdogan stated on Monday that Turkiye might halt Finland's and Sweden's NATO membership applications if the Nordic nations break their counterterrorism commitments from last month.

President Tayyip Erdogan stated on Monday that Turkiye might halt Finland's and Sweden's NATO membership applications if the Nordic nations break their counterterrorism commitments from last month. He also stated that he thought Sweden was "not showing a good image" at the moment. In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden asked to join the defence alliance. Turkiye, however, objected, claiming that the Nordic nations supported organisations it considers terrorists. At the NATO summit in Madrid last month, the three nations agreed to lift Ankara's veto in exchange for commitments on counterterrorism and military exports. In order to ratify their membership applications, Turkiye has stated that it will strictly monitor the agreement's implementation. Erdogan told reporters on Monday before a three-way summit with Russia and Iran; "I want to reiterate once again that we will freeze the process if these countries do not take the necessary steps to fulfil our conditions. We particularly note that Sweden does not have a good image on this issue." Also Read: Sri Lanka: Three frontrunners in race to become next president after Gotabaya resigned After an agreement with Turkiye, which had previously prevented the Nordic countries from joining, NATO started the accession processes for Sweden and Finland earlier this month. Erdogan has accused both nations of supporting "terrorism" and serving as safe havens for Kurdish militants, highlighting, in particular, the PKK, an illegal organisation he has worked to suppress. When asked about Erdogan's comments in Washington, State Department spokesman Ned Price did not immediately answer but instead cited Turkiye's approval of the Nordic countries' NATO membership during the NATO summit. (with inputs from agencies)

Turkiye's Erdogan says will freeze Finland and Sweden's NATO bids if commitments not kept

Danielle van de Donk`s superb goal gave the Netherlands an important 3-2 win over Portugal in their Group C match at Leigh Sports Village on Wednesday, helping the defending champions move to the top of the group table. Damaris Egurrola gave the Dutch, a team hit by injury and illness, a seventh-minute lead with a fine header from a corner. Nine minutes later, Stefanie van der Gragt doubled the lead with another goal. But Portugal refused to give up and showed some remarkable resistance. Carole Costa scored a goal via the penalty in the 38th minute of the game to make it 2-1.

At half-time, Portugal was trailing by a goal in the game. Two minutes after the break, Diana Silva made things even for Portugal, heading home a fine cross from Costa. The Dutch could have got the lead thanks to Jill Roord but her effort was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. In the 62nd minute, Van De Donk netted the decider, collecting the ball on box`s edge and curling it into the far corner to make it 3-2 in favour of Netherlands.

Netherlands are currently having four points in two games, equal with Sweden. Sweden gained their first win against Switzerland by 2-1. Netherlands will play Switzerland in their final game while Portugal will face off against Sweden. Both concluding games will take place on July 17. Teenage Everton midfielder Hanna Bennison`s decider goal in the second half helped Sweden clinch their first win of the competition against Switzerland at Bramall Lane. Sweden started off the game well but had a scare in the ninth minute after their opponent was awarded a penalty due to a foul, but after looking at the pitchside monitor, the referee overturned her decision.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-saudi-club-makes-irresistible-offer-for-man-uniteds-cristiano-ronaldo-report-497224">UNBELIEVABLE! Saudi club makes irresistible offer for Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo: Report</a>

Fridolina Rolfo was troubling the Swiss with her gameplay. The first half was goalless. She continued playing well after the break, with her effort missing the top corner. But in the 53rd minute of the match, she netted the first goal for her side, tucking the ball into the bottom left corner of the goal. Ramona Bachmann hit with an equaliser just two minutes later, hitting a curling shot into the top corner.

Switzerland tried to make most of their chances for the next few minutes but Bennison`s strike in 79th-minute was the final goal of the game, making it 2-1 in favour of Sweden. Sweden could have added a third in the 87th minute but the goal by Rebecka Blomqvist was chalked off for offside. Nonetheless, Sweden had finished on the winning side.

Danielle van de Donk`s superb goal gave the Netherlands an important 3-2 win over Portugal in their Group C match at Leigh Sports Village on Wednesday, helping the defending champions move to the top of the group table.

Danielle van de Donk`s superb goal gave the Netherlands an important 3-2 win over Portugal in their Group C match at Leigh Sports Village on Wednesday, helping the defending champions move to the top of the group table. Damaris Egurrola gave the Dutch, a team hit by injury and illness, a seventh-minute lead with a fine header from a corner. Nine minutes later, Stefanie van der Gragt doubled the lead with another goal. But Portugal refused to give up and showed some remarkable resistance. Carole Costa scored a goal via the penalty in the 38th minute of the game to make it 2-1. At half-time, Portugal was trailing by a goal in the game. Two minutes after the break, Diana Silva made things even for Portugal, heading home a fine cross from Costa. The Dutch could have got the lead thanks to Jill Roord but her effort was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. In the 62nd minute, Van De Donk netted the decider, collecting the ball on box`s edge and curling it into the far corner to make it 3-2 in favour of Netherlands. Netherlands are currently having four points in two games, equal with Sweden. Sweden gained their first win against Switzerland by 2-1. Netherlands will play Switzerland in their final game while Portugal will face off against Sweden. Both concluding games will take place on July 17. Teenage Everton midfielder Hanna Bennison`s decider goal in the second half helped Sweden clinch their first win of the competition against Switzerland at Bramall Lane. Sweden started off the game well but had a scare in the ninth minute after their opponent was awarded a penalty due to a foul, but after looking at the pitchside monitor, the referee overturned her decision. ALSO READ | UNBELIEVABLE! Saudi club makes irresistible offer for Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo: Report Fridolina Rolfo was troubling the Swiss with her gameplay. The first half was goalless. She continued playing well after the break, with her effort missing the top corner. But in the 53rd minute of the match, she netted the first goal for her side, tucking the ball into the bottom left corner of the goal. Ramona Bachmann hit with an equaliser just two minutes later, hitting a curling shot into the top corner. Switzerland tried to make most of their chances for the next few minutes but Bennison`s strike in 79th-minute was the final goal of the game, making it 2-1 in favour of Sweden. Sweden could have added a third in the 87th minute but the goal by Rebecka Blomqvist was chalked off for offside. Nonetheless, Sweden had finished on the winning side.

Women's Euro 2022: Netherlands cruise to top with 3-2 win vs Portugal, Sweden gets off the mark

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation has no current plans to send troops to Sweden and Finland once they complete the membership process launched this week, the defensive alliance's deputy chief said on Tuesday.

As reported by AFP, Deputy Secretary-General Mircea Geoana said, "We don't plan to have an additional presence in either country, they have formidable national forces. They're capable of defending themselves."&nbsp;

"We don't plan to have NATO bases in these two countries, because they have a very high level of military and strategic maturity," he added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned last week that if military contingents and military infrastructure were deployed there, we would be obliged to respond symmetrically and raise the same threats for those territories where threats have arisen for us.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/udaipur-terror-attack-how-my-hometown-turned-into-a-curfew-zone-494414">Udaipur terror attack: How my hometown turned into a curfew zone&nbsp;</a>

Geoana said that after the accession process was launched Tuesday, it is up to parliaments in all 30 member states to ratify Oslo and Helsinki's membership of the Atlantic alliance. Although a deal has been struck in principle with Turkey to overcome its objections relating to the Nordic countries' policy towards Kurdish militants, there is still some suspense on whether Ankara will ratify immediately.

Geoana hailed NATO members' and allies' support for Ukraine as it defends itself against the Russian invasion launched on February 24. But he acknowledged "active concerns" about how long the flow of arms and ammunition can be kept up. Also speaking Tuesday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, "I count on allies to deliver a quick and swift and smooth ratification process."

(with inputs from agencies) 
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The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation has no current plans to send troops to Sweden and Finland once they complete the membership process launched this week, the defensive alliance's deputy chief said on Tuesday.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation has no current plans to send troops to Sweden and Finland once they complete the membership process launched this week, the defensive alliance's deputy chief said on Tuesday. As reported by AFP, Deputy Secretary-General Mircea Geoana said, "We don't plan to have an additional presence in either country, they have formidable national forces. They're capable of defending themselves." "We don't plan to have NATO bases in these two countries, because they have a very high level of military and strategic maturity," he added. Russian President Vladimir Putin warned last week that if military contingents and military infrastructure were deployed there, we would be obliged to respond symmetrically and raise the same threats for those territories where threats have arisen for us. Also Read: Udaipur terror attack: How my hometown turned into a curfew zone Geoana said that after the accession process was launched Tuesday, it is up to parliaments in all 30 member states to ratify Oslo and Helsinki's membership of the Atlantic alliance. Although a deal has been struck in principle with Turkey to overcome its objections relating to the Nordic countries' policy towards Kurdish militants, there is still some suspense on whether Ankara will ratify immediately. Geoana hailed NATO members' and allies' support for Ukraine as it defends itself against the Russian invasion launched on February 24. But he acknowledged "active concerns" about how long the flow of arms and ammunition can be kept up. Also speaking Tuesday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, "I count on allies to deliver a quick and swift and smooth ratification process." (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.

NATO says no plans to send troops to Sweden or Finland after Putin threatens to retaliate

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that the process to ratify Sweden and Finland as the newest members of the military alliance has been formally launched.

He told reporters in a joint press statement with the Swedish and Finnish foreign ministers "This is a good day for Finland and Sweden and a good day for NATO."

"With 32 nations around the table, we will be even stronger and our people will be even safer as we face the biggest security crisis in decades," he added.

Opening a months-long period for alliance countries to ratify their membership, NATO's 30 member states are expected to sign the accession protocols for the two Nordic countries in a meeting.

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Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said, "We are tremendously grateful for all the strong support that our accession has received from the allies."

"We are convinced that our membership would strengthen NATO and add to the stability in the Euro Atlantic area," she added.

Both Sweden and Finland announced their intention to drop their military non-alignment status and become part of NATO following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February.

After Turkey won concessions over concerns it had raised and a US promise it would receive new warplanes, a NATO summit in Madrid last week endorsed that move by issuing invitations to the two nations.

Accusing both countries of promoting "terrorism", Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they were havens for Kurdish militants he has sought to crush.

After putting forward his demand to lift arms embargoes imposed for Turkey's 2019 military incursion into Syria, Erdogan said he could still block Sweden and Finland's bids if NATO fails to fulfill its promises.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that the process to ratify Sweden and Finland as the newest members of the military alliance has been formally launched.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that the process to ratify Sweden and Finland as the newest members of the military alliance has been formally launched. He told reporters in a joint press statement with the Swedish and Finnish foreign ministers "This is a good day for Finland and Sweden and a good day for NATO." "With 32 nations around the table, we will be even stronger and our people will be even safer as we face the biggest security crisis in decades," he added. Opening a months-long period for alliance countries to ratify their membership, NATO's 30 member states are expected to sign the accession protocols for the two Nordic countries in a meeting. × Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said, "We are tremendously grateful for all the strong support that our accession has received from the allies." "We are convinced that our membership would strengthen NATO and add to the stability in the Euro Atlantic area," she added. Both Sweden and Finland announced their intention to drop their military non-alignment status and become part of NATO following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February. After Turkey won concessions over concerns it had raised and a US promise it would receive new warplanes, a NATO summit in Madrid last week endorsed that move by issuing invitations to the two nations. Accusing both countries of promoting "terrorism", Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said they were havens for Kurdish militants he has sought to crush. After putting forward his demand to lift arms embargoes imposed for Turkey's 2019 military incursion into Syria, Erdogan said he could still block Sweden and Finland's bids if NATO fails to fulfill its promises. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Stoltenberg announces formal launch of ratification process for Sweden, Finland membership

Turkish President Erdogan has issued a pretty blunt warning to Sweden and Finland that he could actually still block their bid to join the NATO military alliance if they fail to implement the new deal with Ankara that has been signed in the recently concluded NATO summit.

'Must meet the demand or we'll block their NATO bids,' Erdogan's stern warning to Sweden & Finland

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that Türkiye can still block Finland and Sweden from becoming NATO members if the two countries fail to “meet his expectations”. At the end of the NATO Summit in Madrid, Erdogan made it clear that the 10-article agreement with both the countries was a victory for his country and any change in the terms can result in Türkiye once again taking away their support. The Turkish President added that the best part of the agreements was the extradition of terror suspects with links to Kurdish groups, according to Associated Press.

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The Turkish parliament still need to ratify the deal reached by the three countries and till then, the government still has the chance to go back on their words and block the NATO membership bid.

“This business will not work if we don’t pass this in our parliament. First, Sweden and Finland must fulfil their duties and those are already in the text ... But if they don’t fulfil these, then of course there is no way we would send it to our parliament,” Erdogan said according to AP.

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In the press conference, Erdogan told the journalists that Sweden will be extraditing 73 people who are suspected members of the Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK) – a body listed as terrorists by both the European Union (EU) and the United States.

“Of course, what we understand is important from our meetings and talks,” Erdogan said according to the report. “Sweden promised to give us these 73 people with this text. They may or they may not, we will follow that through the text, and we will make our decision.”

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(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that Türkiye can still block Finland and Sweden from becoming NATO members if the two countries fail to “meet his expectations”.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that Türkiye can still block Finland and Sweden from becoming NATO members if the two countries fail to “meet his expectations”. At the end of the NATO Summit in Madrid, Erdogan made it clear that the 10-article agreement with both the countries was a victory for his country and any change in the terms can result in Türkiye once again taking away their support. The Turkish President added that the best part of the agreements was the extradition of terror suspects with links to Kurdish groups, according to Associated Press. Also read | SCOTUS strikes again, limits US government powers to curb greenhouse emissions The Turkish parliament still need to ratify the deal reached by the three countries and till then, the government still has the chance to go back on their words and block the NATO membership bid. “This business will not work if we don’t pass this in our parliament. First, Sweden and Finland must fulfil their duties and those are already in the text ... But if they don’t fulfil these, then of course there is no way we would send it to our parliament,” Erdogan said according to AP. Also read | Ketanji Brown Jackson sworn in, becomes first Black woman on US Supreme Court In the press conference, Erdogan told the journalists that Sweden will be extraditing 73 people who are suspected members of the Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK) – a body listed as terrorists by both the European Union (EU) and the United States. “Of course, what we understand is important from our meetings and talks,” Erdogan said according to the report. “Sweden promised to give us these 73 people with this text. They may or they may not, we will follow that through the text, and we will make our decision.” 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Türkiye can still block Finland and Sweden’s NATO membership, says Erdogan

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia will be responding in kind to any deployment of troops or infrastructure by NATO in ether Finland or Sweden after the two countries became the newest members of the alliance. "With Sweden and Finland, we don't have the problems that we have with Ukraine. They want to join NATO, go ahead," Putin told Russian state television. "But they must understand there was no threat before, while now, if military contingents and infrastructure are deployed there, we will have to respond in kind and create the same threats for the territories from which threats towards us are created," he added according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-finland-sweden-get-formal-invites-to-join-nato-493057" hreflang="en">Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO</a>

Finland and Sweden were invited to become members of the NATO alliance on Wednesday after Türkiye decided to end their opposition following a meeting at the NATO summit in Madrid.

The decision is expected to create tensions between the two nations and Russia.

"Everything was fine between us, but now there might be some tensions, there certainly will. It's inevitable if there is a threat to us," Putin said when asked about the new NATO members.

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The NATO membership bids by Sweden and Finland were seen as a direct result of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The “special military operations” sparked fear in Baltic countries but Putin maintained that the goal was to "liberate" and safeguard Russian interests in the region.

Putin also denied that Russian military was responsible for the missile attack on the Ukrainian shopping centre which resulted in the death of 18 people and injured many more.

“Our army does not attack any civilian infrastructure sites. We have every capability of knowing what is situated where,” Putin said in a news conference in the Turkmenistan capital of Ashgabat.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia will be responding in kind to any deployment of troops or infrastructure by NATO in ether Finland or Sweden after the two countries became the newest members of the alliance.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia will be responding in kind to any deployment of troops or infrastructure by NATO in ether Finland or Sweden after the two countries became the newest members of the alliance. "With Sweden and Finland, we don't have the problems that we have with Ukraine. They want to join NATO, go ahead," Putin told Russian state television. "But they must understand there was no threat before, while now, if military contingents and infrastructure are deployed there, we will have to respond in kind and create the same threats for the territories from which threats towards us are created," he added according to Reuters. Also read | Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO Finland and Sweden were invited to become members of the NATO alliance on Wednesday after Türkiye decided to end their opposition following a meeting at the NATO summit in Madrid. The decision is expected to create tensions between the two nations and Russia. "Everything was fine between us, but now there might be some tensions, there certainly will. It's inevitable if there is a threat to us," Putin said when asked about the new NATO members. Also read | Syria recognises Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk The NATO membership bids by Sweden and Finland were seen as a direct result of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The “special military operations” sparked fear in Baltic countries but Putin maintained that the goal was to "liberate" and safeguard Russian interests in the region. Putin also denied that Russian military was responsible for the missile attack on the Ukrainian shopping centre which resulted in the death of 18 people and injured many more. “Our army does not attack any civilian infrastructure sites. We have every capability of knowing what is situated where,” Putin said in a news conference in the Turkmenistan capital of Ashgabat. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin issues warning to Finland and Sweden on installing NATO infrastructure

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued fresh warning to Finland and Sweden that if they welcome NATO troops and military infrastructure onto their territory, Moscow will respond in kind.

Putin condemns NATO’s ‘imperial ambitions’, issues fresh warning to Finland, Sweden

Amid a raging war NATO leaders are gathered in Madrid. Back in 1997 as well NATO leaders had held a summit in Madrid. WION tells you what are the challenges the alliance is battling in the years of Madrid summit.

NATO's big challenges ahead: Finland & Sweden to join alliance; balancing act by military alliance

With the Ukraine war entering its fifth month, the priority for Spain's NATO partners remains firmly on deterring Russia. As NATO leaders meet in Madrid, Molly Gambhir tells you the challenges that the military alliance faces.

WION Fineprint | Sweden, Finland to join NATO

The ongoing war in eastern Europe has ruffled security landscape in the continent In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the two historically neutral countries Sweden and Finland wanted to join the NATO block and after weeks of negotiation Turkiye has cleared the way for the nations.

Turkiye support Finland, Sweden bid to join NATO

Turkiye has agreed to support Finland and Sweden joining the NATO military alliance. The announcement came ahead of the official start of a NATO summit in Madrid during a meeting between Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Turkiye signs agreement to support Finland, Sweden NATO bids

Sweden and Finland have finally got the formal invite to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The announcement was made by the NATO Heads of State and Government in a declaration. This is a historic expansion of the defense bloc. It is happening at a time when&nbsp;Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. This became possible after Turkey dropped its objections to the expansion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-stepping-up-president-joe-biden-announces-us-military-air-sea-land-reinforcements-in-europe-492912" hreflang="en">'We're stepping up': Biden announces US military reinforcements in Europe</a>

"We reaffirm our commitment to NATO's Open Door Policy. Today, we have decided to invite Finland and Sweden to become members of NATO, and agreed to sign the Accession Protocols. The accession of Finland and Sweden will make them safer, NATO stronger, and the Euro-Atlantic area more secure. The security of Finland and Sweden is of direct importance to the Alliance, including during the accession process," the statement said on Wednesday. &nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Turkiye signs agreement to support Finland, Sweden NATO bids&nbsp;

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Following the invitation, the process of ratification for the two nations may take some time, said NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. "...we need a ratification process in 30 parliaments; that always takes some time, but I expect also that to go rather quickly because allies are ready to try to make that ratification process happen as quickly as possible," Stoltenberg added. &nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Sweden and Finland have finally got the formal invite to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The announcement was made by the NATO Heads of State and Government in a declaration.

Sweden and Finland have finally got the formal invite to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The announcement was made by the NATO Heads of State and Government in a declaration. This is a historic expansion of the defense bloc. It is happening at a time when Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. This became possible after Turkey dropped its objections to the expansion. Also Read: 'We're stepping up': Biden announces US military reinforcements in Europe "We reaffirm our commitment to NATO's Open Door Policy. Today, we have decided to invite Finland and Sweden to become members of NATO, and agreed to sign the Accession Protocols. The accession of Finland and Sweden will make them safer, NATO stronger, and the Euro-Atlantic area more secure. The security of Finland and Sweden is of direct importance to the Alliance, including during the accession process," the statement said on Wednesday. WATCH | Turkiye signs agreement to support Finland, Sweden NATO bids Following the invitation, the process of ratification for the two nations may take some time, said NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. "...we need a ratification process in 30 parliaments; that always takes some time, but I expect also that to go rather quickly because allies are ready to try to make that ratification process happen as quickly as possible," Stoltenberg added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Finally, Finland, Sweden get formal invites to join NATO

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced on Tuesday that Türkiye has finally agreed to support Sweden and Finland’s bid to become NATO members. The announcement came on the first day of the NATO summit in Madrid as the three countries signed a joint memorandum “to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security”. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a meeting with his Swedish and Finnish counterparts about his reservations regarding their NATO membership bid but the result was a mutual understanding between the three nations.

“We have made progress. That is definitely the case,” Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said.

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“We are prepared for something positive to happen today, but also for it to take more time,” she added according to AFP. “We must be patient and continue discussions even after the summit.”

Earlier, Türkiye voiced their strong objection to allowing Sweden and Finland into the NATO alliance due to the two countries’ approach towards groups which Erdogan considers to be “national security threats”. However, they were urged by both Spain and France to reconsider their decision.

French President Emmanuel Macron had called for a message of “unity and of force” from NATO in Madrid while Spain expressed their support to Finland and Sweden regarding their NATO bid.

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO leaders will be formally inviting Finland and Sweden to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation on Wednesday, according to AFP.

"I'm pleased to announce that we now have an agreement that paves the way for Finland and Sweden to join NATO. Turkey, Finland and Sweden have signed a memorandum that addresses Turkey's concerns, including around arms exports, and the fight against terrorism," Stoltenberg said.

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Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced on Tuesday that Türkiye has finally agreed to support Sweden and Finland’s bid to become NATO members. The announcement came on the first day of the NATO summit in Madrid as the three countries signed a joint memorandum “to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security”.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto announced on Tuesday that Türkiye has finally agreed to support Sweden and Finland’s bid to become NATO members. The announcement came on the first day of the NATO summit in Madrid as the three countries signed a joint memorandum “to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security”. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a meeting with his Swedish and Finnish counterparts about his reservations regarding their NATO membership bid but the result was a mutual understanding between the three nations. “We have made progress. That is definitely the case,” Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said. Also read | Russia would halt its offensive as soon as Ukraine surrenders: Kremlin “We are prepared for something positive to happen today, but also for it to take more time,” she added according to AFP. “We must be patient and continue discussions even after the summit.” Earlier, Türkiye voiced their strong objection to allowing Sweden and Finland into the NATO alliance due to the two countries’ approach towards groups which Erdogan considers to be “national security threats”. However, they were urged by both Spain and France to reconsider their decision. French President Emmanuel Macron had called for a message of “unity and of force” from NATO in Madrid while Spain expressed their support to Finland and Sweden regarding their NATO bid. Also read | Ghislaine Maxwell sentenced to 20 years in prison over sex trafficking NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO leaders will be formally inviting Finland and Sweden to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation on Wednesday, according to AFP. "I'm pleased to announce that we now have an agreement that paves the way for Finland and Sweden to join NATO. Turkey, Finland and Sweden have signed a memorandum that addresses Turkey's concerns, including around arms exports, and the fight against terrorism," Stoltenberg said. 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.

NATO to invite Finland and Sweden to join alliance after Türkiye lifts objections

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet leaders of Sweden and Finland as well as NATO on Tuesday (June 28) ahead of the NATO Summit, said Turkish presidential spokesman on Sunday.

Both, Finland and Sweden have applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, their bids have been opposed by Turkiye. The country says that it has been angered by Sweden and Finland's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara.

Turkiye Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin was talking with broadcaster Haberturk when he said that he himself and Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal would also attend another round of talks with Swedish and Finnish delegations on Monday (June 27)

"There will be a four-way summit at the leader level with the attendance of our president in Madrid upon the request of the NATO secretary general," he said.

Kalin said Erdogan attending the talks with Sweden, Finland and NATO on Tuesday "does not mean we will take a step back from our position."

Kalin said Turkey and the Nordic countries had largely agreed on issues and would be in a better position in Madrid if they could agree on them during talks on Monday.

"We have brought negotiations to a certain point. It is not possible for us to take a step back here," he also said of the talks on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet leaders of Sweden and Finland as well as NATO on Tuesday (June 28) ahead of the NATO Summit, said Turkish presidential spokesman on Sunday.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet leaders of Sweden and Finland as well as NATO on Tuesday (June 28) ahead of the NATO Summit, said Turkish presidential spokesman on Sunday. Both, Finland and Sweden have applied for NATO membership after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, their bids have been opposed by Turkiye. The country says that it has been angered by Sweden and Finland's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara. Turkiye Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin was talking with broadcaster Haberturk when he said that he himself and Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal would also attend another round of talks with Swedish and Finnish delegations on Monday (June 27) "There will be a four-way summit at the leader level with the attendance of our president in Madrid upon the request of the NATO secretary general," he said. Kalin said Erdogan attending the talks with Sweden, Finland and NATO on Tuesday "does not mean we will take a step back from our position." Kalin said Turkey and the Nordic countries had largely agreed on issues and would be in a better position in Madrid if they could agree on them during talks on Monday. "We have brought negotiations to a certain point. It is not possible for us to take a step back here," he also said of the talks on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Erdogan to meet Swedish, Finnish leaders before NATO summit

NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit on Tuesday, as the West strives to send Russia and China a signal of resolve.

Taking place in the shadow of Russia's war in Ukraine, the Madrid gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the transatlantic bond after failures in Afghanistan and internal discord during the era of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to pull Washington out of the nuclear alliance.

Negotiations among an often-fractious organisation are still under way, diplomats said, but leaders also hope to agree to provide more military aid to Ukraine, increase joint defence spending, cement a new resolve to tackle China's military rise and put more troops on stand-by to defend the Baltics.

Spain, whose king will host a dinner for leaders, is also pushing for more NATO focus on the southern flank to address migration and militant groups in the Sahel region of Africa.

The leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea are expected to attend part of the summit, part of a broader U.S. strategy for a more assertive Western presence in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China.

"We will do more to ensure we can defend every inch of allied territory, at all times and against any threat," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a speech last week.

Although British and U.S. officials have advised against a Baltic request for permanent multinational forces in the region, the summit is likely to settle on a compromise of promising rapid reinforcements.

Germany has already said it will put more troops at the ready to defend Lithuania should Russia seek to seize NATO territory and Britain is expected to do the same for Estonia, while Latvia is looking to Canada to pledge more troops there.

TURKEY VETO

NATO - created in 1949 to counter the Soviet threat - is under no treaty obligation to defend Ukraine, as the former Soviet republic is not a NATO member.

But Russian President Vladimir Putin's Feb. 24 invasion has sparked a geopolitical shift as once neutral countries Finland and Sweden seek to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and Ukraine has formally become a candidate to join the European Union.

If accepted, Finland and Sweden's inclusion into NATO would bring about the expansion of the alliance that the Russian leader aimed to prevent.

"I think it sends an important message to Putin. And I think it would actually significantly strengthen the alliance," U.S. Senator Angus King said of Finland and Sweden, following a trip to Finland, Latvia and Turkey.

However, Turkey is also testing that unity, angered by what it says is Helsinki and Stockholm's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara.

A Turkish government official involved in the talks between the three countries and NATO's Stoltenberg told Reuters it would be difficult to reach a deal at the summit, saying that Sweden and Finland must first address Turkish concerns.

"There were meetings, but unfortunately steps we expected are not being taken," the official said.

Sweden has set up a process for ongoing consultations, diplomats said. But two senior NATO diplomats said the dispute was less about technical benchmarks and more about politics.

Erdogan's stance has proved popular at home before a June 2023 presidential election as he seeks to challenge U.S. and European priorities. In recent weeks, he has threatened more military operations in northern Syria, stoked tensions with fellow NATO member Greece and declined to join Western sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war.

"I think there's nearly zero chance that this issue will be resolved at the Madrid summit," said Soner Cagaptay, a Turkey analyst at the Washington Institute, a U.S. think-tank.

U.S. President Joe Biden could hold a meeting with Erdogan in the margins of the NATO summit to push for progress with Finland and Sweden, whose leaders will be in Madrid.

But Cagaptay added that Erdogan could try to use the situation to boost his popularity and call a possible snap election in November ahead of the official June 2023 vote.

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NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit on Tuesday, as the West strives to send Russia and China a signal of resolve.

NATO leaders will urge Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to lift his veto over Finland and Sweden's bid to join the military alliance when they meet for a three-day summit on Tuesday, as the West strives to send Russia and China a signal of resolve. Taking place in the shadow of Russia's war in Ukraine, the Madrid gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the transatlantic bond after failures in Afghanistan and internal discord during the era of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to pull Washington out of the nuclear alliance. Negotiations among an often-fractious organisation are still under way, diplomats said, but leaders also hope to agree to provide more military aid to Ukraine, increase joint defence spending, cement a new resolve to tackle China's military rise and put more troops on stand-by to defend the Baltics. Spain, whose king will host a dinner for leaders, is also pushing for more NATO focus on the southern flank to address migration and militant groups in the Sahel region of Africa. The leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea are expected to attend part of the summit, part of a broader U.S. strategy for a more assertive Western presence in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China. "We will do more to ensure we can defend every inch of allied territory, at all times and against any threat," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a speech last week. Although British and U.S. officials have advised against a Baltic request for permanent multinational forces in the region, the summit is likely to settle on a compromise of promising rapid reinforcements. Germany has already said it will put more troops at the ready to defend Lithuania should Russia seek to seize NATO territory and Britain is expected to do the same for Estonia, while Latvia is looking to Canada to pledge more troops there. TURKEY VETO NATO - created in 1949 to counter the Soviet threat - is under no treaty obligation to defend Ukraine, as the former Soviet republic is not a NATO member. But Russian President Vladimir Putin's Feb. 24 invasion has sparked a geopolitical shift as once neutral countries Finland and Sweden seek to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and Ukraine has formally become a candidate to join the European Union. If accepted, Finland and Sweden's inclusion into NATO would bring about the expansion of the alliance that the Russian leader aimed to prevent. "I think it sends an important message to Putin. And I think it would actually significantly strengthen the alliance," U.S. Senator Angus King said of Finland and Sweden, following a trip to Finland, Latvia and Turkey. However, Turkey is also testing that unity, angered by what it says is Helsinki and Stockholm's support for Kurdish militants and arms embargoes on Ankara. A Turkish government official involved in the talks between the three countries and NATO's Stoltenberg told Reuters it would be difficult to reach a deal at the summit, saying that Sweden and Finland must first address Turkish concerns. "There were meetings, but unfortunately steps we expected are not being taken," the official said. Sweden has set up a process for ongoing consultations, diplomats said. But two senior NATO diplomats said the dispute was less about technical benchmarks and more about politics. Erdogan's stance has proved popular at home before a June 2023 presidential election as he seeks to challenge U.S. and European priorities. In recent weeks, he has threatened more military operations in northern Syria, stoked tensions with fellow NATO member Greece and declined to join Western sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war. "I think there's nearly zero chance that this issue will be resolved at the Madrid summit," said Soner Cagaptay, a Turkey analyst at the Washington Institute, a U.S. think-tank. U.S. President Joe Biden could hold a meeting with Erdogan in the margins of the NATO summit to push for progress with Finland and Sweden, whose leaders will be in Madrid. But Cagaptay added that Erdogan could try to use the situation to boost his popularity and call a possible snap election in November ahead of the official June 2023 vote. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO to pledge aid to Baltics and Ukraine, urge Turkey to let in Nordics

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