STOCKHOLM – Sweden has proposed taking a leading role in establishing an enhanced NATO presence in Finland through the creation of forward land forces (FLF). This initiative aims to bolster the security and defense capabilities of Finland.
Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson announced the proposal in a joint press conference with Finnish Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen. Jonson emphasized that Sweden is eager to act as the framework nation for these forward land forces in Finland. However, he noted that the process is still in its early stages and that the final decision on the leadership role will be made collectively by NATO members.
The proposal reflects the significant shift in security policy for both Finland and Sweden following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Both countries, previously non-aligned militarily, joined NATO—Finland in 2023 and Sweden in 2024—as part of their efforts to enhance regional security.