No "Article 5," Finland warns US regarding Ukraine

Finland has warned the United States not to describe future security guarantees for post-war Ukraine as "similar to Article 5" of NATO. According to Helsinki, such wording could weaken Article 5 itself, which is the basis of the Alliance's collective defense.

This is according to a diplomatic telegram obtained by Politico. During talks with US lawmakers, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen emphasized that Russia remains a long-term strategic threat and that Ukraine needs strong security measures.

At the same time, however, she warned against mixing bilateral commitments with NATO mechanisms. According to Finland, there must be a clear "protective barrier" between Article 5 and any guarantees for Ukraine.

Analysts warn that inaccurate use of this term could provoke political disputes among member states and test the Alliance's resolve on the part of Russia.

In the context of uncertain peace negotiations and differing positions within NATO, there are growing concerns that efforts to help Ukraine could undermine the very foundations of collective defense.

(pir)