Finland
Finland is a Northern European nation and NATO member that has recently shifted toward a more assertive security and border policy within the European Union, while deepening its strategic defense partnership with Israel.
Finland, a Nordic nation sharing a 1,340-kilometer border with Russia, has undergone a profound strategic transformation. Historically defined by military non-alignment, Helsinki officially joined NATO in 2023 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This shift has catalyzed a broader 'security-first' posture, influencing its approach to European border management and its bilateral relations with Israel.
In the European arena, Finland has emerged as a key voice advocating for the integrity of the Schengen Area. Alongside nations like Italy, Denmark, and Austria, Finland has expressed growing concern over irregular migration at the EU's external borders. This includes supporting calls for stricter controls or temporary internal border closures when external management—such as Spain's handling of migration from Morocco—is deemed insufficient. Helsinki views the management of migration through the lens of national security, aiming to prevent its use as a tool of hybrid warfare by adversarial states.
For Israel and the Jewish world, Finland has become an increasingly vital partner in defense and counter-terrorism. Despite domestic political pressure and the ongoing war in Gaza, Finland has prioritized its security interests by deepening ties with the Israeli defense establishment. In 2024, the two nations quietly signed a 10-year memorandum of understanding to extend defense cooperation, focusing on research, development, and procurement. This agreement continues a framework established in 2013 and was underscored by a rare visit to Israel by the Finnish Chief of Staff to meet with his IDF counterpart.
Furthermore, Finland has taken a principled stance on international funding integrity. In August 2026, the Finnish government decided not to renew its multi-year funding agreement with UNRWA, worth millions of euros. This followed the 2024 suspension of contributions by Foreign Trade Minister Ville Tavio over allegations that agency employees participated in the October 7 massacre. This move reflects Finland's broader commitment to ensuring that international aid does not support terror infrastructure, aligning with its rigorous national security and ethical standards.