Finland and Sweden can join NATO quickly if they wish and should not have to fear for their security in the meantime. But, then it is already clear that it is essential that NATO countries, says NATO boss Jens Stoltenberg.

Finland and Sweden want to abandon their neutrality due to the threat from Russia and are expected to apply for membership in the Western military alliance in about three weeks. The thirty current NATO countries could agree to this by the end of June, after which a few more months are needed for the blessing of their parliaments.

In the waiting room, Finland and Sweden cannot yet appeal to the famous NATO agreement that they regard an attack on one as an attack on all. Helsinki and Stockholm are therefore looking for ways to ensure their safety in the meantime.

“As soon as we decide to invite them, we will send a strong political message that the security of Finland and Sweden is important to all NATO allies,” Stoltenberg said on a visit to the European Parliament. “I am convinced that we can find methods to bridge that interim period in a way that is good enough and works for both Sweden and Finland.”