A Russian official warned Finland and Sweden that they should not join NATO. He said such a move would have “serious militari-political consequences.” Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia’s foreign ministry made these remarks during a news conference. She said that Russian forces are continuing to fight the Ukrainian military after an unprovoked invasion into neighboring Ukraine.

She stated that Finland and Sweden shouldn’t base their security on compromising the security of other nations. “Finland and Sweden should never be able to do so and their accession into NATO could have adverse consequences and some military and political consequences.”

Later, the ministry posted the exact same threat on Twitter.

The tweet said, “We consider the Finnish government’s commitment to a militarily non-alignment strategy as an important factor in ensuring stability and security in northern Europe.” “Finland’s accession into @NATO would have serious political and military repercussions.”

Mikko Hautala, the Finnish Ambassador, stated in a tweet that a partnership with NATO was “very important.”

“Partnership with NATO is very important to us. He wrote that while we must maintain a strong national defense, it is possible to apply for membership. “It is each nation’s sovereign right to decide on its security policy.”

While Ukrainian leaders expressed their desire to join NATO and Russia expressed strong opposition to the expansion of the alliance to 30 members, especially on its border to neighboring Ukraine.

Russian forces had been closing in on Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, Friday. However, American intelligence experts believe that Ukraine is resisting more than expected. The government gave arms to those who were willing to fight in an attempt to defend the country.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated Thursday that the alliance would defend its members should Moscow launch an offensive.

After Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to pull forces from the alliance, he said NATO had deployed its Response Force for collective defense.

Stoltenberg stated, “This extends far beyond Ukraine.” This is about Russia’s actual challenge, contesting our core values for security. Then, he warned that NATO should withdraw all infrastructure and forces from nearly half of its members.

NATO has not intervened in the conflict nor sent troops to support Ukraine. The President Biden stated Thursday that the United States could intervene if Russian forces enter NATO countries.

Putin said that if he moved into NATO countries, he would be involved. “We will be involved.”