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July 13 (UPI) — During a meeting held before his address, President Joe Biden conveyed his congratulations to President Sauli Niinisto for Finland’s official inclusion in NATO. In a joint press conference following the summit with Niinisto and other leaders from Nordic states, Biden emphasized the United States’ dedication to protecting Finland as a NATO member.
Biden stated, “As your ally, we want the people of Finland to know that we are committed to Finland, committed to NATO, and these commitments are rock solid. We will defend every inch of NATO territory, including Finland, obviously.”
Finland officially joined NATO in April after plans for its membership were delayed alongside Sweden. However, Turkey dropped its objection, paving the way for both Finland and Sweden to become members.
When asked about legislation to prevent future presidents from withdrawing from NATO without Senate approval, Biden asserted that the United States would remain a steadfast partner to the military alliance. He stated, “As sure as anything can possibly be said about American foreign policy, we will stay connected to NATO … beginning, middle, and end. We are a transatlantic partnership.”
In 2018, former President Donald Trump contemplated withdrawing from NATO, perceiving the military alliance as a burden on the United States used to contain the Soviet Union and now Russia.
Addressing concerns about a guarantee, Biden responded, “No one can guarantee the future, but this is the best bet anyone can make.” He emphasized that the security of the United States depended on a stable Europe, providing significant incentive for America’s continued involvement.
President Niinisto confirmed that he met with at least 50 House and Senate members who expressed no interest in the United States leaving NATO.
Biden expressed that the future inclusion of Finland and Sweden would strengthen NATO and enhance European security. He highlighted that the contributions of Finland and Sweden would reduce the threat of potential Russian aggression.
Niinisto assured full support for Finland’s NATO membership, noting that 80% of Finland’s public were supportive. Despite sharing a border with Russia, they already felt safer as part of the alliance.
Regarding Ukraine and Russia’s year-long invasion, Biden speculated that Putin had “already lost the war.” He expressed doubt about Russia’s ability to maintain the necessary resources and capacity for a prolonged conflict. Biden expressed hopes for significant progress in the current Ukrainian counteroffensive, leading to a negotiated settlement.
