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Finland's leaders favor NATO bid

Finland’s president and prime minister announced support for immediately applying to join NATO, a major reversal due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Finland's 19th century Helsinki Cathedral
Finland's 19th century Helsinki Cathedral (AN/Michael Ranzau)

Finland’s President Sauli Niinistö and Prime Minister Sanna Marin announced their support on Thursday for immediately applying to join NATO, a major reversal of the nation's military stance brought on by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Finland and Russia share a 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) border, which has led to renewed debate in Finland over how best to ensure its security in light of the Ukraine war since late February.  "During this spring, an important discussion on Finland’s possible NATO membership has taken place," Niinistö and Marin said in a joint statement.

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