Britain signed a new security agreement with Sweden and Finland
HELSINKI, May 11 (Reuters) – British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Wednesday he had agreed new agreements with Sweden and Finland to strengthen European security and promised to support the armed forces of both countries if they were attacked.
Johnson signed new declarations, which Britain describes as a “step change in defense and security co-operation” during a visit to both Sweden and Finland on Wednesday.
“It says that in the event of a disaster or an attack on one of us, we will help each other, including with military assistance,” Johnson said at a news conference in Helsinki.
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Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has forced a rethink of how Sweden – and neighboring Finland – are safeguarding national security. Read more
Both are expected to join NATO, but both fear being vulnerable during the processing of applications, which could take up to a year. Read more
When asked whether Finland would provoke Russia by joining NATO, Finnish President Sauli Niinistö replied that Russian President Vladimir Putin was to blame for the decision to join the military alliance.
“My answer would be that you caused this. Look in the mirror,” Niinistö said.
Sweden has also received support from the United States and Germany. Read more
Speaking earlier to Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, Johnson said: “The war in Ukraine is forcing us all to make difficult decisions. But sovereign nations must be able to make those decisions without fear, influence or the threat of revenge.”
Britain said the new arrangements would enhance intelligence sharing and accelerate joint military training, exercises and investment.
Johnson said the nature of all assistance “depends on the request of the other party.” But he said NATO was a defense alliance.
“NATO is not threatening anyone. It exists for mutual defense,” he said at a news conference in Helsinki.
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Reported by William James, Anne Kauranen and Simon Johnson; Edited by Kylie MacLellan and Lisa Shumaker
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