Finland to allow nuclear weapons on its soil: government

Finland said Thursday it planned to lift restrictions prohibiting nuclear weapons on its soil, in order to bring the country in line with NATO's deterrence policy after joining the alliance in 2023.

"The government proposal would make it possible in future to bring a nuclear weapon into Finland, or to transport, deliver or possess one in Finland, if it is connected to the military defence of Finland," Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen told reporters.

"In all other situations than these grounds for exception, the import, transport, delivery and possession of nuclear explosives would continue to be prohibited," he said. The right-wing coalition, which holds a majority in parliament, said its proposal had been sent around for consultation until April 2, and hoped the new law would enter into force as soon as possible.