The Finnish Parliament has unanimously approved a defense agreement with the United States, marking a significant step in strengthening military cooperation between the two nations amid growing regional tensions.
On Monday, Finland’s Parliament voted unanimously in favor of a defense agreement with the United States. Kimmo Kiljunen, the Social Democratic Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, described the decision as a “historic moment” during the plenary session.
“This agreement, much like our NATO membership, aims to enhance the security of Finland and its people,” Kiljunen emphasized.
The agreement, signed by the Finnish government in December, allows the U.S. access to 15 military bases in Finland. It also facilitates the presence and training of U.S. soldiers and permits the storage of weapons and military equipment on Finnish soil. Additionally, the pact aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in crisis situations.
The U.S. has similar agreements with 11 other NATO countries, including Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometer (833-mile) border with Russia, joined NATO in April 2023 following the start of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022. It prompted Finland to seek NATO membership, signaling a shift in its defense strategy and regional alliances.
The newly approved U.S. defense agreement is seen as a further measure to bolster Finland’s military in light of its complicated relationship with Russia, which has deteriorated since Finland’s NATO accession.
Neighboring Sweden’s Parliament approved a similar defense agreement in June after extensive debate. Critics in Sweden expressed concerns about the potential stationing of nuclear weapons and the establishment of permanent U.S. military bases. In Finland, lawmakers ensured that the agreement respects national laws prohibiting the import and transit of nuclear weapons on Finnish soil, addressing similar concerns.
The defense agreement with the U.S. is part of Finland’s broader strategy to align more closely with NATO and strengthen its military capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions. The decision reflects Finland’s proactive measures to ensure its national security in a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape.
