Finland To Join NATO; Hands In Application

Ùkraine was welcomed with open hands for joining NATO in 2008, later in 2017 when the country adopted legislation, this move was objectified and given prime importance. The world had seen the repercussions of this move owing to Russia.

With the growing unrest in the neighbouring countries around Russia, Finland's Prime Minister, Sanna Marin has stretched arms and showed interest to apply for NATO. As of Wednesday, the European country has handed in their bids to join the US-led alliance. The country shares a 1,300 kilometre border with Russia. With the rising tensions amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Finland is prudent about their nation’s security. 

What is at stake? The Russian wine being off the shelves from Finland's marts or the manufacturing company have to find an alternative for the raw materials from Russia used formerly. Seems like the citizens are in favour of risking it, in spite of dread calls from Russian president  Vladimir Putin. The nation polled in favour of their company which showed a whooping 70% mark to join the military alliance, NATO which was a mere 20% during the times of pre-Ukrainian war.

The ambiguity of the answer is still in debate around the globe. The country that had a long history of being military neutral for a long time. To fear the consequences that had arrived at the doorsteps of Ukraine, Finland has nothing similar with the former country in the context of having Russian interest. 

Given the history of good relations with Russian powers, is there actually anything substantial in terms of gains that the country could benefit from when joining NATO. Consoling the fear stricken Finns, the country has a number of diplomats and strategists who have expertise in flipping the opinions, so why not now? The future of this decision is still to be seen.