“Tensions in Europe will inevitably increase when Sweden and Finland join NATO,” said Russian President Vladimir Putin after the two countries were officially invited to the alliance yesterday.
– If NATO troops and infrastructure are deployed, we will have to respond if threats against us are created, the president said on Wednesday evening.
At the same time, Putin tried to tone down the risk of conflict with the Nordic countries.
– We have no problem at all with Sweden and Finland joining NATO. If they want to join, they can do so.
In the player above: See President Vladimir Putin’s reaction to Swedish NATO membership.