Joint Statement by the Ministers of Defence of the Northern Group

The Ministers of Defence of the Northern Group met in Reykjavík, Iceland, on 8 June 2022, and gave the following statement:

Today we, the Ministers, discussed the implications of Russia‘s invasion of Ukraine, which we condemn in the strongest possible terms. Russia‘s invasion has inflicted immeasurable destruction and suffering on the Ukrainian people, and is a threat to the security of Europe and the North Atlantic area. We stand with Ukraine and will continue to support Ukraine both militarily and politically against Russia‘s brutal and illegal aggression.

Today we also discussed the implications of global challenges to security in the northern regions, including the High North. We underline our strong political unity and cohesion in the face of threats to the security of our region. We will continue to strive to protect our common values of democracy, rule of law, freedom and human rights. We underline that the sanctity of internationally recognised borders is a bedrock principle of international relations. Any erosion of this principle represents a grave danger to a system that is based on international law and rules-based order.

The Ministers of Defence of the Northern Group warmly welcome the sovereign decisions by Finland and Sweden to apply for NATO membership. This will improve our collective defence and enhance security and stability in Northern Europe. Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and the United Kingdom welcome Finland and Sweden’s applications and will work for fast national ratification processes