The United Kingdom has vowed to defend Sweden and Finland from Russian invasion as the two northern nations debate whether or not to join NATO.
The statement from the UK came as UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson met with Swedish PM Magdalena Andersson at her Harpsund country residence for a joint summit, and with Finnish president Sauli Niinisto in Helsinki.
Both Sweden and Finland, traditionally neutral countries, are believed to be about to join NATO in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Finland has a large border with Russia and Sweden is also in close proximity. Russia has already warned that there would be serious consequences for both nations if they chose to explicitly align themselves with NATO.
Johnson said at the televised meeting:
"The war in Ukraine is forcing us all to make difficult decisions. Sovereign nations must be free to make those decisions without fear or influence or threat of retaliation."
He continued:
"What we are saying emphatically is in the event of an attack upon Sweden then the UK would come to the assistance of Sweden with whatever Sweden requested. We are steadfast and unequivocal in our support to both Sweden and Finland and the signing of these security declarations is a symbol of the everlasting assurance between our nations. These are not a short-term stop-gap, but a long-term commitment to bolster military ties and global stability, and fortify Europe's defences for generations to come."
At the summit in Helsinki, the British PM said:
"The security declaration, the solemn declaration we have signed today, ensures that our two nations can intensify our partnership and take it to unparalleled heights, both latitudinal and metaphorical. From the high north, to the Baltics and beyond, our armed forces will train, operate and exercise together, marrying our defence and security capabilities and formalising a pledge that we will always come to one another's aid."
"Because this is not a short-term stop gap, Sauli. This is not a short-term stop gap as you consider Nato membership, but an enduring assurance between two nations, an assurance that brings us ever closer as we face the challenges of today, the threats of tomorrow, side by side."
It is unclear how Russia will respond once the two nations have joined NATO, a move which could be ratified within a matter of weeks.
[Based on reporting by: The Daily Mail]
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