On Tuesday, Finland formally joined the NATO alliance following escalating pressure on Finland by Russia, becoming the 31st member of NATO. Russia warned that Finland joining NATO would result in 'counter-measures'.
Finland's joining of the alliance was sealed during a formal ceremony at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.
The Finnish Minister for Foreign Affairs said that Finland will "make a contribution" to NATO's collective deterrence and defense.
Several leaders welcomed Finland, following the NATO alliance, via social media.
by Natasha Briggs