Finland has aligned with France’s nuclear defence plan to strengthen European security through closer defence cooperation with partner countries.
The leaders of both countries disclosed this on Monday In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s expressions of concern about the U.S. security commitment to Europe and to the security implications of the Ukraine war.
The defence plan was announced by France in March.
Finland’s President Alexander Stubb said the plan would strengthen Europe’s responsibility for its own defence and help prevent escalation.
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Under the plan, the French president retains sole authority to decide when nuclear weapons are used, unlike NATO’s shared nuclear planning arrangements.
The programme provides for joint exercises, possible short term deployment of nuclear capable assets on allied territory and deeper consultations among participating countries.
Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen described the agreement as a “natural step”, saying Finland was following Norway, Sweden and Denmark which joined the initiative earlier this year.
Ten countries now participate in the programme including Finland.
Stubb said the initiative does not replace NATO’s nuclear deterrence and that Finland does not intend to allow nuclear weapons to be stationed on its territory during peacetime.
Reuters
