Turkey opposed NATO's plan to admit Sweden and Finland as members of the military alliance. Is Erdogan using the opportunity to secure concessions from the West? What is the West willing to offer Turkey? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Turkey derails NATO's Nordic expansion

The two Nordic countries Sweden and Finland will hand in their respective applications to join the military alliance NATO today. It's a historic move for the Nordic nations which are known for the policies of military neutrality but the move comes despite Turkey's threat to block the expansion of North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Finland and Sweden's historic NATO membership bids

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has restarted his opposition to Finland and Sweden joining the NATO. Turkey has also asked both countries to extradite suspected PKK members.

Turkey threatens to block Sweden, Finland NATO bids

Hours after Sweden and Finland confirmed intentions to join NATO, the membership plans have hit a road block. The opposition is Turkey whose President has said that he would not approve either bids. Sweden and Finland need all of NATO's 30 members to approve the applications.

Sweden, Finland's NATO bids hit a snag; 'Don't bother to come,' says Turkey

In a monumental decision Sweden and Finland both have now confirmed that they will apply for NATO membership, a decision which will bring about one of the biggest changes to Europe's security architecture in decades.

Europe's security landscape reshaped; Sweden, Finland confirm NATO plans

Sweden & Finland will soon apply for NATO membership. There were apprehensions about Turkey not supporting their NATO bid. Now Turkey has laid down demands for NATO membership of two Nordic countries. “They need to stop supporting terrorist organisations. The defence industry restriction or the prohibitions on export permits imposed to an ally such as Turkey should definitely be lifted,” Turkish Foreign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu said. Meanwhile, US & NATO are confident that Turkey will not impede membership.

Why did Turkey set demands on Finland & Sweden joining NATO?

Nordic countries Finland and Sweden have ditched neutrality and seek to join the NATO alliance amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Finland & Sweden ditches neutrality & seek to join NATO amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Lawmakers in Finland and Sweden on Monday debated their respective NATO bids, as the two neighbours prepare to submit applications this week as a deterrent against Russian aggression.

Finland officially announced its intention to join NATO on Sunday as Sweden's ruling party said it backed membership, paving the way for a joint application.

The move is a dramatic turnaround from the two countries' military non-alignment policies, dating back more than 75 years for Finland and two centuries for Sweden.

In Helsinki, parliament began a marathon session with over 150 of 200 MPs asking to speak, following a membership proposal presented on Sunday by President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-prepares-for-russian-military-push-in-donbas-region-amid-ongoing-crisis-479397">Ukraine prepares for Russian military push in Donbas region amid ongoing crisis</a>

"Our security environment has fundamentally changed," Marin told parliament. 
"The only country that threatens European security, and is now openly waging a war of aggression, is Russia", she said.

Russia has repeatedly warned Finland and Sweden of consequences if they apply to join NATO.

"This is another grave mistake with far-reaching consequences," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies on Monday.

Finland, which shares a 1,300-kilometre (800-mile) border with Russia, has a long shared history with Russia.

It spent more than a century as part of the Russian empire until it gained independence in 1917. It was then invaded by the Soviet Union in 1939.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Europe's security landscape reshaped; Sweden, Finland confirm NATO plans

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Finns put up a fierce fight during the bloody Winter War, but were ultimately forced to cede a huge stretch of their eastern Karelia province in a peace treaty with Moscow.

An overwhelming majority of Finland's 200 MPs&nbsp;at least 85 per cent back the decision to join NATO after Marin's Social Democratic Party on Saturday said it was in favour of joining.

Finnish public opinion is also strongly in favour of membership.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-ruling-party-backs-nato-membership-479243">Sweden's ruling party backs NATO membership</a>

According to recent polls, more than three-quarters of Finns want to join the alliance, almost triple the level seen before the war in Ukraine began on February 24.

Meanwhile, a group of US senators, including Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, visited Helsinki on Monday for talks with President Niinisto.

"The goal in the United States will be to approve (Finland's) admission as rapidly as possible", McConnell said after the meeting.

Sweden 'vulnerable' outside NATO&nbsp;

Meanwhile in Sweden, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson was consulting parliament on Monday before announcing her government's official intention to apply, though lawmakers are not expected to vote on the issue.

Her Social Democratic Party came out in favour of joining the alliance on Sunday, securing a firm majority in parliament for membership. Only two of eight parties are opposed to membership.&nbsp;

The turnaround by her party is dramatic, having opposed NATO membership since the birth of the alliance, with Andersson herself expressing opposition as recently as March.

Swedish public support for NATO membership has also risen dramatically, albeit lower than in Finland at around 50 percent -- with about 20 percent against.

Andersson acknowledged that Sweden's decision to join NATO was closely tied to Finland's.

As the only country in the Baltic Sea region outside of NATO, Sweden would find itself "in a very vulnerable position", she told parliament, citing the risk of "Russia increasing the pressure on Sweden".

She also stressed Sweden's "extensive military cooperation" with Finland.

If Sweden doesn't join, and "Finland as a NATO member focuses more on its cooperation with NATO countries, Sweden's defence capability decreases at a time when it instead needs to be strengthened."

But if Sweden were to join, cooperation and defence capabilities around the Baltic Sea "would increase drastically". 
"The best thing for our country's security is therefore for Sweden to apply for membership in NATO and to do it together with Finland," she said.

The Left Party, which is opposed to membership, meanwhile lamented that Sweden did not put the question to the public in either an election or referendum, calling it "deeply problematic."

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Lawmakers in Finland and Sweden on Monday debated their respective NATO bids, as the two neighbours prepare to submit applications this week as a deterrent against Russian aggression.

Lawmakers in Finland and Sweden on Monday debated their respective NATO bids, as the two neighbours prepare to submit applications this week as a deterrent against Russian aggression. Finland officially announced its intention to join NATO on Sunday as Sweden's ruling party said it backed membership, paving the way for a joint application. The move is a dramatic turnaround from the two countries' military non-alignment policies, dating back more than 75 years for Finland and two centuries for Sweden. In Helsinki, parliament began a marathon session with over 150 of 200 MPs asking to speak, following a membership proposal presented on Sunday by President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin. Also read | Ukraine prepares for Russian military push in Donbas region amid ongoing crisis "Our security environment has fundamentally changed," Marin told parliament. "The only country that threatens European security, and is now openly waging a war of aggression, is Russia", she said. Russia has repeatedly warned Finland and Sweden of consequences if they apply to join NATO. "This is another grave mistake with far-reaching consequences," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies on Monday. Finland, which shares a 1,300-kilometre (800-mile) border with Russia, has a long shared history with Russia. It spent more than a century as part of the Russian empire until it gained independence in 1917. It was then invaded by the Soviet Union in 1939. Watch | Europe's security landscape reshaped; Sweden, Finland confirm NATO plans Finns put up a fierce fight during the bloody Winter War, but were ultimately forced to cede a huge stretch of their eastern Karelia province in a peace treaty with Moscow. An overwhelming majority of Finland's 200 MPs at least 85 per cent back the decision to join NATO after Marin's Social Democratic Party on Saturday said it was in favour of joining. Finnish public opinion is also strongly in favour of membership. Also read | Sweden's ruling party backs NATO membership According to recent polls, more than three-quarters of Finns want to join the alliance, almost triple the level seen before the war in Ukraine began on February 24. Meanwhile, a group of US senators, including Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, visited Helsinki on Monday for talks with President Niinisto. "The goal in the United States will be to approve (Finland's) admission as rapidly as possible", McConnell said after the meeting. Sweden 'vulnerable' outside NATO Meanwhile in Sweden, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson was consulting parliament on Monday before announcing her government's official intention to apply, though lawmakers are not expected to vote on the issue. Her Social Democratic Party came out in favour of joining the alliance on Sunday, securing a firm majority in parliament for membership. Only two of eight parties are opposed to membership. The turnaround by her party is dramatic, having opposed NATO membership since the birth of the alliance, with Andersson herself expressing opposition as recently as March. Swedish public support for NATO membership has also risen dramatically, albeit lower than in Finland at around 50 percent -- with about 20 percent against. Andersson acknowledged that Sweden's decision to join NATO was closely tied to Finland's. As the only country in the Baltic Sea region outside of NATO, Sweden would find itself "in a very vulnerable position", she told parliament, citing the risk of "Russia increasing the pressure on Sweden". She also stressed Sweden's "extensive military cooperation" with Finland. If Sweden doesn't join, and "Finland as a NATO member focuses more on its cooperation with NATO countries, Sweden's defence capability decreases at a time when it instead needs to be strengthened." But if Sweden were to join, cooperation and defence capabilities around the Baltic Sea "would increase drastically". "The best thing for our country's security is therefore for Sweden to apply for membership in NATO and to do it together with Finland," she said. The Left Party, which is opposed to membership, meanwhile lamented that Sweden did not put the question to the public in either an election or referendum, calling it "deeply problematic." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Swedish, Finnish MPs debate NATO membership

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden have applied for NATO membership. However, tensions are escalating over the issue as Russia is against their bid.

Finnish President calls Russian President Putin as tensions escalate over Finland's NATO bid

Turkey has slammed Sweden & Finland's NATO bid as Turkish President says Turkey is not in favour of Sweden & Finland's NATO move.

Erdogan says Turkey is not in favour of Sweden & Finland's NATO bid

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed opposition to Finland and Sweden joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

He accused both countries of harbouring "terrorist organisations" and said Turkey does not have a ''positive opinion'' about them.

Citing a "mistake" made by Turkey's former rulers who approved Greece's NATO membership in 1952, Erdogan said he does not want to repeat it.

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He had previously condemned the Nordic countries for harbouring extremist Kurdish groups as well as supporters of a US-based preacher, Fethullah Gulen who was wanted over a failed 2016 coup.&nbsp;

Following Erdogan's statement, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Washington is "working to clarify Turkey's position".

She added that other members of NATO have shown broad support to Finland and Sweden for becoming members of the transatlantic alliance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-suspend-finland-electricity-supply-from-weekend-over-payment-issues-478731">Russia to suspend Finland's electricity supply amid NATO membership rift</a>

According to Pentagon spokesman John Kirby, "Turkey is a valued NATO ally; that has not changed.''

''They have been involved and helpful in trying to get dialogue going between Russia and Ukraine, and they have provided assistance to Ukraine. So nothing changes about their standing in the NATO alliance," he added.

Finland and Sweden want to become a part of NATO to deter Russian aggression after it invaded Ukraine. But for this, they need unanimous approval by all members, and Turkey's stance can act as a potential obstacle to the nations' membership bid.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed opposition to Finland and Sweden joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He accused both countries of harbouring "terrorist organisations" and said Turkey does not have a ''positive opinion'' about them.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed opposition to Finland and Sweden joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). He accused both countries of harbouring "terrorist organisations" and said Turkey does not have a ''positive opinion'' about them. Citing a "mistake" made by Turkey's former rulers who approved Greece's NATO membership in 1952, Erdogan said he does not want to repeat it. He had previously condemned the Nordic countries for harbouring extremist Kurdish groups as well as supporters of a US-based preacher, Fethullah Gulen who was wanted over a failed 2016 coup. Following Erdogan's statement, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Washington is "working to clarify Turkey's position". She added that other members of NATO have shown broad support to Finland and Sweden for becoming members of the transatlantic alliance. Also read | Russia to suspend Finland's electricity supply amid NATO membership rift According to Pentagon spokesman John Kirby, "Turkey is a valued NATO ally; that has not changed.'' ''They have been involved and helpful in trying to get dialogue going between Russia and Ukraine, and they have provided assistance to Ukraine. So nothing changes about their standing in the NATO alliance," he added. Finland and Sweden want to become a part of NATO to deter Russian aggression after it invaded Ukraine. But for this, they need unanimous approval by all members, and Turkey's stance can act as a potential obstacle to the nations' membership bid. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Erdogan says Turkey does not have 'positive opinion' on Sweden, Finland joining NATO

Finland is expected to announce its bid to join NATO on Thursday with Sweden likely to follow soon after, as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine reshapes European security and the Atlantic military alliance.

Finland may soon announce bid to join NATO

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.

Finland, Sweden likely to announce decision on NATO soon

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

Reports emerge that claims Iran will execute Swedish national by May 21st. This comes at a time when Iran-Sweden ties are turning bitter. Watch this report.

Reports: Iran to execute Swedish national by May 21st

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

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meetings with prime ministers from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Finland on Wednesday.

PM Modi at Nordic Summit: Indian PM meets leaders of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden & Norway

Pointing out the extreme climate changes faced by India, especially the heatwaves during the summer season, Swedish Prime Minister Eva Magdalena Andersson has said that India and Sweden can deepen their ties further by working on a green climate transition.

Speaking exclusively to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Andersson said that climate change is another potential area for both countries to work on which can also ensure job opportunities for the people.

“It is one of the issues that we have been discussing. We would like to have a deep cooperation in the green transition. I know it is very hot in India right now and we see the effects of climate change across the globe, and we have to do more. It is also something that can create jobs.”

When asked whether the Russia-Ukraine war figured during the talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andersson said, “Yes, of course.”

The Swedish prime minister also said that their country is currently in the process of applying for NATO membership.

“We are conducting a review to analyse the new situation, which is Russia deciding to invade friendly and democratic neighbouring country (Ukraine). So, we have to think what is best for Sweden and its security in this completely new situation,” she said.

On Wednesday, PM Modi, during his 3-day Europe visit, held a series of bilateral talks with the Prime Ministers of the Nordic countries on the sidelines of the 2nd India Nordic Summit.

The Nordic countries include Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Iceland, which represent the most advanced economies in Europe.

Modi also had a "wonderful meeting" with Swedish counterpart Andersson during which they discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and the progress in the Joint Action Plan. This was the first meeting between the two leaders.

"We discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in key sectors like security, IT, research and innovation. Strong ties between our nations will benefit our people," Modi tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/exclusive-iceland-to-help-india-when-it-comes-to-climate-solutions-says-pm-katrin-jakobsdottir-476548">Exclusive | Iceland to help India when it comes to climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir</a>

The two leaders held extensive talks on further diversifying the India-Sweden friendship, the Prime Minister's Office said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-french-president-macron-hold-talks-call-for-end-to-russia-ukraine-war-476483">Indian PM, French president hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war</a>

During the 2018 visit of Prime Minister Modi to Sweden, the two sides adopted a wide-ranging Joint Action Plan to take forward a wide range of initiatives in defence, trade and investment, renewable energy, smart cities, women’s skill development, space and science and healthcare etc. The two sides had also signed a Joint Innovation Partnership.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Swedish PM Eva Magdalena Andersson speaks on India-Nordic relations

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Pointing out the extreme climate changes faced by India, especially the heatwaves during the summer season, Swedish Prime Minister Eva Magdalena Andersson has said that India and Sweden can deepen their ties further by working on a green climate transition.

Pointing out the extreme climate changes faced by India, especially the heatwaves during the summer season, Swedish Prime Minister Eva Magdalena Andersson has said that India and Sweden can deepen their ties further by working on a green climate transition. Speaking exclusively to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Andersson said that climate change is another potential area for both countries to work on which can also ensure job opportunities for the people. “It is one of the issues that we have been discussing. We would like to have a deep cooperation in the green transition. I know it is very hot in India right now and we see the effects of climate change across the globe, and we have to do more. It is also something that can create jobs.” When asked whether the Russia-Ukraine war figured during the talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andersson said, “Yes, of course.” The Swedish prime minister also said that their country is currently in the process of applying for NATO membership. “We are conducting a review to analyse the new situation, which is Russia deciding to invade friendly and democratic neighbouring country (Ukraine). So, we have to think what is best for Sweden and its security in this completely new situation,” she said. On Wednesday, PM Modi, during his 3-day Europe visit, held a series of bilateral talks with the Prime Ministers of the Nordic countries on the sidelines of the 2nd India Nordic Summit. The Nordic countries include Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Iceland, which represent the most advanced economies in Europe. Modi also had a "wonderful meeting" with Swedish counterpart Andersson during which they discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and the progress in the Joint Action Plan. This was the first meeting between the two leaders. "We discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in key sectors like security, IT, research and innovation. Strong ties between our nations will benefit our people," Modi tweeted. Also read | Exclusive | Iceland to help India when it comes to climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir The two leaders held extensive talks on further diversifying the India-Sweden friendship, the Prime Minister's Office said. Also read | Indian PM, French president hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war During the 2018 visit of Prime Minister Modi to Sweden, the two sides adopted a wide-ranging Joint Action Plan to take forward a wide range of initiatives in defence, trade and investment, renewable energy, smart cities, women’s skill development, space and science and healthcare etc. The two sides had also signed a Joint Innovation Partnership. Watch | WION Exclusive: Swedish PM Eva Magdalena Andersson speaks on India-Nordic relations

India and Sweden can further deepen ties by working on climate change: Swedish PM Andersson to WION

A Swedish-Iranian man who was convicted on spying charges would be executed by May 21, Iran’s ISNA news agency said on Wednesday citing unnamed officials.

Ahmad Reza Jalali, who specialises in disaster relief and has taught at European universities, was arrested in Iran in April 2016 for allegedly “spying on behalf of Israel and having a role in the killing of Iranian nuclear physicists", ISNA said citing sources.

He was subsequently sentenced to death, which was upheld by the Iranian Supreme Court in 2017.

The announcement of his execution came shortly before the trial ended for Hamid Noury, a former Iranian prosecution official arrested by Swedish authorities in 2019.

Noury is being tried for life imprisonment for committing grave war crimes during the final phase of the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s.

The Stockholm District Court on Wednesday said that a verdict was expected on July 14 and that Nouri will “remain in custody until the verdict is announced or otherwise is decided”, reports Reuters.

Under Swedish law, courts can try Swedish citizens and other nationals for crimes against international law committed abroad.

On Monday, Iran’s foreign ministry summoned the Swedish envoy to protest “the baseless and fabricated accusations that the Swedish prosecutor made against Iran during Noury’s court case”, Iranian media reported earlier.

Meanwhile, Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde expressed worry over reports that Iran may carry out the death penalty.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-abortion-us-supreme-court-may-go-after-contraception-same-sex-marriage-say-experts-476339">After abortion, US SC may go after contraception, same-sex marriage: Experts</a>

In a Twitter post, she condemned “the death penalty and demand the release of Djalali.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-storming-azovstal-steel-plant-says-russia-amid-strikes-on-mariupol-476324" hreflang="en">Not storming Azovstal steel plant, says Russia amid strikes on Mariupol</a>

“We have said this several times to representatives of Iran,” she wrote, adding Sweden was in contact with Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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.&nbsp;

A Swedish-Iranian man who was convicted on spying charges would be executed by May 21, Iran’s ISNA news agency said on Wednesday citing unnamed officials. Ahmad Reza Jalali, who specialises in disaster relief and has taught at European universities, was arrested in Iran in April 2016 for allegedly “spying on behalf of Israel and having a role in the killing of Iranian nuclear physicists", ISNA said citing sources.

A Swedish-Iranian man who was convicted on spying charges would be executed by May 21, Iran’s ISNA news agency said on Wednesday citing unnamed officials. Ahmad Reza Jalali, who specialises in disaster relief and has taught at European universities, was arrested in Iran in April 2016 for allegedly “spying on behalf of Israel and having a role in the killing of Iranian nuclear physicists", ISNA said citing sources. He was subsequently sentenced to death, which was upheld by the Iranian Supreme Court in 2017. The announcement of his execution came shortly before the trial ended for Hamid Noury, a former Iranian prosecution official arrested by Swedish authorities in 2019. Noury is being tried for life imprisonment for committing grave war crimes during the final phase of the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s. The Stockholm District Court on Wednesday said that a verdict was expected on July 14 and that Nouri will “remain in custody until the verdict is announced or otherwise is decided”, reports Reuters. Under Swedish law, courts can try Swedish citizens and other nationals for crimes against international law committed abroad. On Monday, Iran’s foreign ministry summoned the Swedish envoy to protest “the baseless and fabricated accusations that the Swedish prosecutor made against Iran during Noury’s court case”, Iranian media reported earlier. Meanwhile, Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde expressed worry over reports that Iran may carry out the death penalty. Also read | After abortion, US SC may go after contraception, same-sex marriage: Experts In a Twitter post, she condemned “the death penalty and demand the release of Djalali.” Also read | Not storming Azovstal steel plant, says Russia amid strikes on Mariupol “We have said this several times to representatives of Iran,” she wrote, adding Sweden was in contact with Tehran. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE 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.

Iran to execute Swedish-Iranian man on espionage charges: Reports

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Swedish counterpart Eva Magdalena Andersson on Wednesday. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties, the progress in the Joint Action Plan and exchanged views on regional and global developments. Following the meeting, Swedish PM Eva Magdalena Andersson spoke exclusively with WION's Sidhant Sibbal.

WION Exclusive: Swedish PM Eva Magdalena Andersson speaks on India-Nordic relations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the second India-Nordic Summit today along with Prime Ministers of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Norway. The summit is being hosted by Denmark.

Indian PM Narendra Modi to participate in second India-Nordic Summit in Denmark today

Sweden has claimed that a Russian plane briefly violated its airspace on Friday. In a statement, Swedish Defence minister, Peter Hultqvist said, "It is totally unacceptable to violate Swedish airspace. This action is unprofessional."

Ukraine-Russia war update: Sweden alleges Russian plane violated airspace

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

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

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