NATO is looking for ways to help defend Sweden and Finland

NATO is looking for ways to strengthen security from Finland and Sweden in case they apply to join the alliance, even before the other 30 member countries have ratified their membership, officials said.

Currently, Sweden and Finland have the most weak.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, the two Nordic countries have said they are likely to seek NATO membership, but have not yet formally done so.

The ratification process need time and countries do not rely on NATO to help them militarily until it is completed.

NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenbergsaid on Thursday that it had discussed with Finland and Sweden ways to make arrangements data that they are covered by the group’s security guarantee.

“I’m sure there are ways to get through the interim in a way that is good enough and works for both Finland and Sweden,” Stoltenberg told the European Parliament in Brussels.

He did not explain what repairs were being considered.

In recent weeks, Sweden and Finland, which have long been NATO partners, have been moving forward to apply for formal membership.

Only alliance members are covered by that guarantee to attack one member is to attack alland that the United States and other allies would come to their military assistance.

The Pentagon has not told Sweden or Finland that the United States will offer a formal security guarantee while their membership is ratified, officials in Washington said.

But the United States has bilateral agreements in forces to countries that should help prevent Russia’s aggression aimed at preventing their NATO membership, officials said.

If Sweden and Finland submit a formal application, the alliance’s ambassadors are expected to begin the process of confirming their membership. in a few days, NATO officials said.

Russia can be expected to oppose his decision and take over steps to prevent this.

“When Russia tries to intimidate Finland and Sweden from applying, it only shows how Russia does not respect the fundamental rights of every country that choose their own way, ”Stoltenberg said Thursday.

“So we’re talking to Finland and Sweden. And it’s their decision, but if they decide to apply, Finland and Sweden will be welcome and they can expect the process to be fast.

c.2022 The New York Times Company