Why NATO should swiftly admit Sweden and Finland

and Sweden to to the anti-arguments of Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin. Two countries that are proud of their long history of military non-alignment think the risk of antagonising their neighbour to the east is outweighed by the security they will gain. It is the direct result of the , which Mr Putin ordered ostensibly to forestall ’s expansion. and submitted their applications on May 18th. Despite Turkey’s stalling tactics, over Kurdish militants and possibly American fighter planes, their admission is likely. They will bring formidable capabilities in Arctic warfare and, in Finland’s case, the largest artillery force in Europe. Membership will more than double the length of ’s border with Russia. It will also make the Baltic states easier to defend.