Finland’s Prime Minister Sanna Marin has disclosed her deep concerns regarding President Sauli Niinistö’s stance on NATO discussions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In her newly published book, “Toivo on tekoja” (“Hope is Actions”), Marin describes her astonishment during a conversation with Niinistö about the rapid decision to seek NATO membership. According to Marin, Niinistö suggested that discussions regarding NATO should primarily fall under the purview of the Parliament, rather than the executive branch.
Marin argues that the alignment of the entire political leadership—encompassing both the presidency and the government—is crucial for advancing the NATO membership process, which ultimately requires parliamentary approval. She was taken aback by Niinistö’s reaction, expressing in an interview that it triggered a real understanding of the complexity involved in navigating such a significant policy shift without total commitment from all key actors.
Despite Marin’s clear support for joining NATO immediately after the Russian invasion, she interpreted Niinistö’s perspective as indicating hesitation about pursuing membership. In his own recent publication, Niinistö admits to not having a definitive opinion on applying for NATO membership as late as early March 2022, stressing the importance of allowing parliament to evaluate the decision in detail.
Niinistö has stated that he does not recall the specific conversation described by Marin but does not dismiss its occurrence either. He emphasized the need for parliamentary involvement in the NATO application process, fearing potential delays and the upcoming parliamentary elections that could complicate matters further.
Marin’s communication with Parliamentary Speaker Matti Vanhanen showcased her concerns regarding Niinistö’s stance and the role of Parliament. However, a pivotal moment for the process came during a March 2, 2022 meeting, where Niinistö discussed the situation with key parliamentary leaders, resulting in a collective readiness to proceed with NATO applications.
A significant turn in the dialogue occurred after Niinistö met with U.S. President Joe Biden on March 3, 2022, where Biden endorsed Finland’s decision-making autonomy while urging patience regarding the application process. This endorsement bolstered Finland’s resolve amid uncertainties surrounding NATO discussions.
Marin reflects on the initial challenges faced in the opening weeks after the war commenced, acknowledging the mixed opinions on the best way forward. However, she remains confident that the eventual NATO membership process turned out to be a significant success, expressing gratitude toward Niinistö for his cooperation during this historic transition.
The discussions surrounding Finland’s NATO membership highlight a critical moment in European security dynamics, underscoring the importance of unity among political leaders and the effective communication necessary to navigate international relations in times of crisis. The shared commitment to collective security may pave the way for a more robust defense posture in the region, enhancing stability in a shifting geopolitical landscape.