The measure allowing the import, transport, transfer, and possession of nuclear weapons on Finnish soil when necessary for national defense passed 125–61.
“With this proposal, we are strengthening Finland’s defense and enabling the full use of NATO’s nuclear deterrent as protection for Finland,” Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen said, describing the legislation as “essential for Finland’s security.”
The government said the changes will help the country feel more secure in an increasingly unpredictable environment, but added Finland does not currently plan to host nuclear weapons.
The revised rules bring Finland’s nuclear policy closer to those of other NATO members. Finland joined the alliance in 2023 in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Finnish lawmakers are also weighing whether to join an
initiative by French President Emmanuel Macron to extend France’s nuclear
deterrent across Europe. Lawmakers plan to vote on that proposal later this
year.