We will defend every square centimeter of NATO territory, Germany’s Scholz says

BERLIN

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz warned Russia on Wednesday against any military moves towards Baltic states, and stressed that NATO is determined to defend all allies.

“We will defend every square centimeter of allied territory, I made that clear during my visit to the Baltic states the day before, and I want to repeat it today,” Scholz told a joint news conference with Finland’s President Alexander Stubb.

He said during their meeting today they will discuss regional developments, ways to increase military support for Ukraine, and also the upcoming NATO summit in Washington where allies will discuss new plans to deter Russia.

“We want to further strengthen the eastern flank of NATO. The objective is very clear: We want to make sure that Russia is never tempted to test our borders and our unity,” Scholz stressed.

He said Germany also wants to strengthen the European pillar within the NATO alliance, and they share similar views with Finland on all these matters.

“I am very pleased that Finland has been a member of NATO since last year. Joining NATO strengthens Finland, strengthens Scandinavia, and strengthens our common security in Europe,” the chancellor added.

BERLIN

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz warned Russia on Wednesday against any military moves towards Baltic states, and stressed that NATO is determined to defend all allies.

“We want to further strengthen the eastern flank of NATO. The objective is very clear: We want to make sure that Russia is never tempted to test our borders and our unity,” Scholz stressed.

He said Germany also wants to strengthen the European pillar within the NATO alliance, and they share similar views with Finland on all these matters.