The historian: "There is no doubt that Finland is on its way to NATO"

- What do you do when your neighbor acts in this way?

It is not acceptable and then you must also be prepared to make decisions, says Henrik Meinander, professor of history at the University of Helsinki.

The historical lessons of Russia's invasion during World War II mean that Finland is now leaning towards NATO membership, according to Meinander.

Three months into World War II, Finland was invaded by Russia, in what would later become known as the Finnish Winter War.

The lessons that Finland learned then are still relevant today, says Henrik Meinander.

Can abandon freedom of alliance

On Wednesday, Finland's analysis of the new security policy situation will be presented, and in the spring, Finland will take a position on the NATO issue.

63 percent of the population supports NATO membership, according to a recent survey, and there are now many indications that Finland will abandon the policy of non-alignment and dialogue pursued during the post-war period.

Today, Russia threatens retaliation if Finland joins the NATO defense alliance.

- Russia is and will remain our neighbor.

We have economic, cultural and social interests to safeguard.

There are many NATO countries that until now have had a functioning cooperation with Russia, says Henrik Meinander.