The deal is a win for Turkish President Erdogan and for NATO, but a bitter pill for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
| Turkey has dropped its opposition to Finland and Sweden joining NATO, paving the way for the trans-Atlantic military alliance to embrace the pair of formerly neutral states on Russia’s border.
“As we begin this historic NATO summit in Madrid, our alliance is stronger, more united and more resolute than ever.”The move to start a NATO accession process for the two Nordic nations is a blow to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The NATO alliance, which Mr Putin reviles, will increase to 32 members from 30. And the rota of neutral states in Europe dwindles to just Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus – many of whom are co-operating with sanctions against Russia.
“Our joint memorandum underscores the commitment of Finland, Sweden and Turkey to extend their full support against threats to each other’s security. Us becoming NATO allies will further strengthen this commitment,” Mr Niinisto said.
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