Finland open to joining French nuclear deterrence, PM Orpo says

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo confirmed Finland's willingness to join France's nuclear deterrence initiative, a move that could extend the French nuclear umbrella to other Nordic countries. The discussion took place during Orpo's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.

"It became clear that Finland is welcome to join the cooperation, and I said that Finland is interested," Orpo stated. Finland would follow Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, which have already signaled their intent to join France's nuclear initiative. Macron had previously announced France's intention to update its nuclear doctrine and expand its deterrence, initiating talks with eight European nations.

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It became clear that Finland is welcome to join the cooperation, and I said that Finland is interested.

Orpo views France's initiative as a positive step for European security and defense capabilities. However, he emphasized that Finland requires more details before committing. "This is a question of enormous magnitude. If we start building a European nuclear deterrent, there are many questions from a military perspective and from the viewpoint of our own defense that need answers," he said.

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This is a question of enormous magnitude. If we start building a European nuclear deterrent, there are many questions from a military perspective and from the viewpoint of our own defense that need answers.

Finland seeks further information on the expectations for its participation and the implications of joining. Orpo indicated that the government could receive more details on France's plans relatively quickly. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen suggested that the government might evaluate joining the French nuclear deterrence later in the year.

Separately, the Finnish government is advancing a reform of the nuclear energy law, which would permit nuclear weapons in Finland for defense. Orpo stressed that this legislative process is independent of the French initiative and is intended to proceed without undue haste. The reform aims to provide the parliament with a calm environment to consider the changes.

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France's initiative strengthens European security and defense capabilities and is commendable.