Finland to Sign Military , Defense Pact With US .
'The Independent' reports that Finland
will sign a bilateral defense cooperation
agreement with the United States. .
The deal to bolster Finland's defenses comes
after the country, which shares a border with
Russia, became the newest member of NATO.
Finland joined NATO in April,
ending decades of military neutrality
amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The agreement allows the U.S. to deploy troops
in Finland, in addition to storing weapons
and other military equipment in the country.
According to Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen,
the so-called Defense Cooperation Agreement
is scheduled to be signed on December 18.
Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen said the pact,
which still needs approval by Finnish lawmakers, , "is very significant for
Finland’s defense and security.".
It bears a very strong message
in this time. The United States
is committed to our defense
also in a tough spot, Antti Häkkänen, Finland's Defense Minister,
via 'The Independent'.
'The Independent' reports that the deal will allow
the U.S. to access 15 military sites across Finland,
while also maintaining a permanent military presence.
'The Independent' reports that the deal will allow
the U.S. to access 15 military sites across Finland,
while also maintaining a permanent military presence.
According to officials, there are
no plans for the U.S. to establish a
permanent military base in Finland.
Just last week, Sweden signed a similar military
agreement, while Denmark is reportedly expected to
make a comparable deal sometime in the near future.
Just last week, Sweden signed a similar military
agreement, while Denmark is reportedly expected to
make a comparable deal sometime in the near future