Russia Threatens Finland and Sweden Amid Rising Tensions

As tensions rise around the world amid the war in Ukraine, the countries neighboring Russia have all sought after different forms of security. Thrown in the spotlight are the peaceful and neutral Scandinavian nations of Finland and Sweden. Their desired form of security is an application to NATO to join the defensive alliance. However, Putin and the Russian government have seen this as a threat to their national security, claiming that NATO is aggressively expanding and planning on invading Russia. 

Finland announced about 18 hours as of May 13, 2022 at 6:20pm, that on Sunday, May 15, they will have reached a decision about making a formal application to NATO. According to BBC news, “Finland will formally announce its decision on Sunday after it has been considered by parliament and other senior political figures.” Ever since the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Finland has been considering joining NATO. This is due to the threat that is perceived by the Finish people. They believe that if Russia is able to invade Ukraine with barely any legitimacy, then they could be in danger at any moment. These thoughts and Russia’s continued threatening has led to where they stand today.

Sweden has also considered a similar course of action. According to BBC news, “Sweden has said it will announce a similar decision on the same day. Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said he expects the process of giving Sweden and Finland membership to happen "quite quickly." Sweden feels similar to Finland and will in fact announce its decision on the same date. Sweden, while neutral, also has a fairly strong military. Fielding the Strv 122, which is a modified Leopard 2A5, and the Strf 9040 IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle.) These vehicles, combined with Sweden's well trained and well equipped infantry, makes them a mobile and effective fighting force, despite their size. On top of this their air force is extremely well prepared for a Russian invasion, being trained to operate from highways and forests using the JAS 39 Gripen. 

Russia’s continued escalation and continued threats have been making powerful enemies for them to deal with. On top of this Russia’s threat to them is possible military action, and if they join NATO then article 5 will come into effect, calling all members to war against Russia. The ball is in Russia’s court and the world awaits for their response.