Commenting on the new US defence strategy, Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen (NCP) said that Washington is still committed to Nato, but that Europe must do more to protect itself.
“It’s crucial for Finland that the joint training activities planned by Nato extend directly onto Finnish soil,” Brigadier General Manu Tuominen tells Yle.
This is the second time that Finland is taking part in the exercise – but the first time it has said so in advance. Its F/A 18 combat aircraft cannot carry nuclear weapons.