Do Sweden and Finland get to hang out with the cool kids, too?

I'm using the opportunity after actually realizing that I should update my blog regularly a brief hiatus to discuss a recurring topic in European circles lately. And no, I'm not talking about Henrik Lundqvist. Instead, Finland and Sweden have increasingly broached the topic of joining NATO following Russia's actions in Ukraine. Now, Finland and Sweden's attitudes toward NATO are not a new topic--in fact, I strangely remember these things being discussed three years ago. And while recent events haven't created a surge in popular support for joining NATO in these two countries, they haven't stopped the two governments from using the opportunity to push the issue. In fact, both governments have increasingly attempted to warm the public to the idea of membership, something that was previously considered dead in the water considering lacking public support in both countries.

It was also announced today that Finland will hold a referendum on NATO membership. At the very least, this shows the seriousness of the issue for the Finnish government and also may be a signal to Russia that the government is seeking out a more active role in European security affairs. A recent memorandum of understanding between Finland and NATO also comes pretty darn close to offering the benefits enjoyed by full members without compelling Finland to accept the responsibility of full-fledged membership.

The Swedish government has been less forceful about the NATO issue, although some in government have not shied away from suggesting that Sweden join the alliance. Swedish defense circles are especially sensitive following a March 2013 incident in which an apparent simulated Russian "strike" against Swedish territory was unmet by Swedish air defense forces. As such, the Swedish government may find it necessary to move closer to the Finnish position, particularly as both countries are seeking greater interoperability on defense matters.