The Kremlin has said it will respond if Finland proceeds with its plan to allow nuclear arms on its territory, calling the move a potential threat to Russia and an escalation of tensions in Europe.
Finland, which shares a long border with Russia, historically maintained neutrality but joined NATO in 2023 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
On Thursday, Helsinki announced plans to lift its longstanding ban on hosting nuclear weapons, potentially allowing deployment during wartime.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated:
“This statement adds to Finland’s vulnerability, a vulnerability provoked by the actions of the Finnish authorities. By deploying nuclear weapons on its territory, Finland is beginning to threaten us. And if Finland threatens us, we take appropriate measures.”
Russia’s warning reflects broader European security concerns amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and unpredictability from U.S. foreign policy, including President Donald Trump’s past proposals such as attempting to acquire Greenland.
