▲ Finland, which shares a border with Russia (File Photo)
The Nordic nation of Finland has repealed its ban on nuclear weapons, which had been in place since 1980.
Finland may now import, operate, supply, and possess nuclear weapons within its territory if necessary for national defense.
The Finnish Parliament passed the bill to lift the nuclear weapons ban on June 17 (local time) with 125 votes in favor and 61 against.
The Finnish government explained that the legislative amendment is intended to strengthen deterrence in an increasingly uncertain international security environment, while emphasizing that there are no plans to permanently station nuclear weapons on its soil.
Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen emphasized that the measure is "essential for Finland's security," adding that it "strengthens Finland's defense capabilities and allows for the full utilization of NATO's nuclear deterrence as a means to protect Finland."
With this legislation, Finland's regulations regarding nuclear weapons have become more aligned with those of other NATO member states.
This move by Finland is interpreted as an effort to secure deterrence against the existential threat posed by Russia, which has intensified since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.
Finland, which shares a border of over 1,300 km with Russia, abandoned its decades-long status as a neutral country and joined NATO in 2023.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.