Finland to Sign Defense Pact with U.S., Allowing Troop Deployment

The agreement, pending approval by Finnish lawmakers, grants U.S. soldiers access to military areas across the country and is deemed 'very significant for Finland’s defense and security.'

Finland, NATO's newest member, is set to sign a bilateral defense cooperation agreement with the United States next week.
The agreement allows the U.S. to send troops to Finland for defense purposes and store weapons and military equipment in the country.
Under the deal, Finland grants U.S. soldiers access to military areas and facilities across the country, including naval bases and air bases.
The pact, which must still be approved by Finnish lawmakers, is said to be 'very significant for Finland’s defense and security,' according to Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen.
Several NATO countries currently have similar bilateral defense agreements with the United States.