NATO is turning its attention back to its main job of deterring and defending against threats from Russia, said Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
After meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Stubb explained that the alliance is focusing more on countering Russian aggression as security concerns grow.
NATO 3.0
Stubb said that NATO is entering a new phase, which he called "NATO 3.0." He explained that the alliance is going back to its original goal of acting as a strong military force to handle threats from the East, mainly Russia.
"We are returning to the original deterrence role that NATO was supposed to play when the threat comes from the East, mainly from Russia," Stubb told the Finnish outlet Verkkouutiset.
He emphasized that NATO members understand the threats from Russia and are committed to working together to defend against them.
Finland's Role in NATO
Since joining NATO, Finland has played an active role in helping to improve the alliance’s command structures and strengthen its northern defenses.
Stubb highlighted Finland’s involvement in NATO’s joint command in Norfolk, alongside the U.S. and other northern allies. He also announced that Finland is building a strong ground force.
Finland and Sweden are working together to create an advanced ground unit to help protect NATO’s northern flank, a key area as tensions with Russia continue.
NATO’s New Northern Headquarters
A major development is the decision to place NATO’s new Northern European ground forces headquarters in the Finnish city of Mikkeli.
Set to start work next year, the headquarters will be responsible for organizing ground operations in NATO’s northern regions and will report to NATO’s main base in Norfolk.
Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkinen said this move will help NATO effectively plan and coordinate defenses in the northern area. The new headquarters will start with a small staff, and more details about the countries involved will be announced later.
Stubb also promised Finland’s continued support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia. Finland, along with other NATO countries, will keep backing Ukraine’s defense efforts and its future NATO membership when the time is right.
