Today, Explained Finland and Sweden have entered the chat
May 23, 2022
Jen Kirby, a foreign affairs correspondent at Vox, dives into the shifting geopolitical landscape with the potential NATO membership of Finland and Sweden. She discusses how their desire to join the alliance, driven by Russia's aggressive actions, isolates Russia in the Arctic. The conversation highlights the historic neutrality of these nations and the changing power dynamics in the region, shedding light on military strategies and cooperation amidst rising tensions. Kirby also touches on Turkey's objections and their implications for NATO's expansion.
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NATO Expansion
- Russia's invasion of Ukraine prompted Finland and Sweden to join NATO.
- This isolates Russia, leaving it the only Arctic country outside the alliance.
Neutrality History
- Sweden has remained neutral for centuries, avoiding major conflicts.
- Finland's history is more complex due to its shared border with Russia and past Soviet invasion.
Turkey's Objection
- Turkey unexpectedly objected to Finland and Sweden joining NATO.
- This stems from Turkey's disapproval of Sweden's asylum granted to members of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).