Finland insists on right to join NATO, defying Russia’s demands

In addition to urging residents to get vaccinated against COVID, Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin's New Year's message emphasized Finland's possibility to apply for membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Report informs, citing YLE News.

"Finland retains the option of applying for NATO membership," Marin said as Russia has demanded the western alliance halt its eastward expansion.

"We should uphold this freedom of choice and make sure it remains a reality, as this is part of every country's right to decide on its own security policies."

She also said Finland would continue to intensify its European security and defense cooperation.

"It is one of the foundations of European security enshrined in the principles of the OSCE. We have shown that we have learnt from the past. We will not let go of our room for maneuver."

Last month, President of Finland Sauli Niinistö said NATO membership is between applicants and NATO—not Russia, with Finland retaining the option to join the alliance.