INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Finland and Sweden formally applied to join the NATO alliance on Wednesday at allied headquarters, a decision spurred by Russia&s invasion
of Ukraine, and setting in motion an accession process that is expected to take only a few weeks.Sweden and Finland were both neutral
throughout the Cold War, and their decision to join NATO is one of the most significant changes in Europe&s security architecture for
decades, reflecting a sweeping shift in public opinion in the Nordic region since Russia&s Feb
24 invasion.This is a historic moment, which we must seize,& NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said at a short ceremony in which the
Swedish and Finnish ambassadors to the alliance handed over their application letters, each in a white folder embossed with their national
flag.I warmly welcome requests by Finland and Sweden to join NATO
You are our closest partners, and your membership in NATO will increase our shared security,& Stoltenberg said
The alliance considers that the accession of Finland and Sweden would hugely strengthen it in the Baltic Sea.Ratification of all 30 allied
parliaments could take up to a year, diplomats say.Turkey has surprised its allies in recent days by saying it had reservations about
Finnish and Swedish membership
Stoltenberg said on Wednesday that he thought the issues could be resolved.We are determined to work through all issues and reach rapid
conclusions,& Stoltenberg said, noting strong support from all other allies.The post Finland, Sweden submit application to join NATO first
