Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in 2014. Its further invasion, from February 2022, failed in its apparent initial objective of toppling the elected government in Kyiv. Moscow’s military forces have, since then, suffered significant reverses – particularly its ground forces – though they continue air and ground operations, particularly in Ukraine’s East. For Russia, equipment and personnel losses have been substantial, but Ukraine’s forces are also suffering losses. To help Ukraine’s defence, the Ukraine Contact Group, comprising around 40 nations, is playing a key role in coordinating international security assistance to the country. A further consequence of Russia’s 2022 invasion is that it has reshaped European security and reinvigorated the NATO Alliance. Germany’s defence posture has transformed, and to the north Finland and Sweden have applied for NATO membership.
Finland and Sweden consider Russia’s actions so concerning for their security that they are taking a step that for decades – even at the height of the Cold War – they chose not to take. In advance of the NATO summit in June, these recent Military Balance articles, which focus on defence policy and military capability in Finland and Sweden, provide a context for the discussions over their applications for NATO membership.
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