RUSSIA TO TAKE “RETALIATORY STEPS” AGAINST FINLAND OVER UKRAINE

Russia has said it will be forced to take “retaliatory steps” over its neighbour, Finland’s move to join North  Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

A foreign ministry statement said the move would seriously damage bilateral relations, as well as security and stability in northern Europe.

Earlier, Finland’s President, Sauli Niinistö and Prime Minister, Sanna Marin called for the country to apply for NATO membership without delay.

It comes amid a surge in public support for NATO membership following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Finland shares a 1,300-km (810-mile) border with Russia. Until now, it has stayed out of Nato to avoid antagonising its eastern neighbour.