In today’s geopolitical environment, NATO is getting back to its main task of deterring and defending against threats from the East, primarily from Russia.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb stated this after a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the Finnish publication Verkkouutiset reports.

According to the President, the countries of the North Atlantic Alliance have a common understanding of security challenges.

“I am convinced that we are now witnessing the formation of NATO 3.0. We are returning to the primary role of deterrence that NATO was supposed to fulfill as a powerful military alliance when the threat comes from the East, mainly from Russia,” Stubb stated.

He noted that NATO countries share a common understanding of security challenges and should work together on both deterrence and defense.

Mr. Stubb emphasized that Finland is actively involved in solidarity measures and improving NATO’s command structures. In particular, together with the United States and northern allies, the country will be part of the Alliance’s Joint Command in Norfolk.

The country will also create a powerful ground component within its own armed forces.

In addition, Finland, together with Sweden, is working on developing a forward land grouping to strengthen NATO’s northern flank.

“We will continue our firm support for Ukraine (in countering the Russian invasion) and its efforts for NATO membership when the time comes,” the Finnish President shared.

The Finnish city of Mikkeli will host the headquarters of NATO’s ground forces in Northern Europe. The headquarters will report to NATO Headquarters in Norfolk and is expected to start operating next year.

According to Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen, the decision to locate NATO’s regional headquarters in Mikkeli allows for effective planning of ground forces operations in the alliance’s northern regions.

The countries that make up the command will be announced later. In peacetime, the staff of the new headquarters will be several hundred people.