Finland, Sweden apply to join NATO

Amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden on Wednesday handed in their applications to join NATO.

After receiving bids from the Finnish and Swedish ambassadors, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said, “The applications you have made today are a historic step. Allies will now consider the next steps on your path to NATO.”

The membership of Finland and Sweden lead to a doubling of NATO’s border with Russia and shows the significant expansion of NATO in decades.

However, the applications were opposed by NATO member Turkey, which threatened to block them over accusations the Nordic neighbors act as safe havens for armed groups opposed to Ankara.

"The security interests of all allies have to be taken into account and we are determined to work through all issues and reach rapid conclusions," Stoltenberg said.

He further added, "All allies agree on the importance of NATO enlargement. We all agree that we must stand together and we all agree that this is a historic moment which we must seize."

NATO ambassadors are expected to discuss the applications on Wednesday and could give the green light on opening formal talks with the pair on their bids.

Several NATO allies, most notably Britain, have offered security assurances to Finland and Sweden during the application period before they are covered by the alliance's mutual defense pact.

"Over the past few days, we have seen numerous statements by allies committing to Finland and Sweden's security. NATO is already vigilant in the Baltic Sea region and NATO and allied forces will continue to adapt as necessary," Stoltenberg said.