Finland’s nuclear weapons ban lift plan sparks broad debate

Finland’s plan to lift its decades-long legal ban on nuclear weapons has sparked broad debate among politicians, experts and peace groups. The government announced it will amend the Nuclear Energy Act and the Criminal Code to remove the ban on importing, transporting or possessing nuclear devices, saying the change would align Finnish law with NATO’s deterrence policy.

Opposition parties, including the Social Democratic Party of Finland, the Green League and the Left Alliance, criticized the move and the lack of prior consultation. Alexander Stubb defended the plan as necessary to remove legal barriers to NATO defense cooperation, while critics argue it could distance Finland from the Nordic tradition of strong anti-nuclear positions and raise regional tensions.

Peace advocates also warn the change may increase public concern and signal stronger reliance on nuclear deterrence. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for Russia, said Moscow would respond if nuclear weapons were deployed in Finland. The draft amendments are currently under public consultation, with comments due by April 2.

Credit : CGTN