Putin Warns of "Problems" with Finland After NATO Membership

Defense News - Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed concerns about the implications of Finland recent NATO membership, cautioning about potential "problems" in the bilateral relationship. In an interview published on Sunday, Putin announced Moscow response, revealing plans to establish a new military district in north-west Russia.

Putin highlighted that Finland decision to join NATO occurred amidst Moscow Ukraine offensive and suggested that this move by the West had strained relations. He stated, "They (the West) dragged Finland into NATO. Did we have any disputes with them? All disputes, including territorial ones in the mid-20th century, have long been solved." Despite previous resolutions, Putin asserted that the new development would introduce challenges, prompting Russia to create the Leningrad military district and concentrate specific military units in the region.

The timing of these statements coincided with Finland decision to close its border with Russia again, accusing Moscow of orchestrating a migrant crisis on the border. Moscow had previously issued warnings about potential counter-measures in response to Helsinki NATO accession.

Addressing the broader context, Putin refuted the notion of Russia being inclined towards war with NATO countries. He responded to recent comments by US leader Joe Biden, who suggested that Moscow "won"t stop" in Ukraine if successful there. Putin dismissed such rhetoric as a justification for a misguided policy on Russia, emphasizing that Moscow has no interest, whether geopolitical, economic, or military, in engaging in conflict with NATO countries.

Despite these assurances, the Kremlin ongoing Ukraine campaign has heightened concerns about potential Russian aggression in the eastern flank of NATO. The situation remains dynamic, with geopolitical tensions impacting the relationship between Russia and its neighbors, particularly in the aftermath of Finland NATO alignment.