• The Senate is expected to vote on ratification of Finland and Sweden’s membership in NATO.
• The Western military alliance seeks to strengthen its resolve against Russia.
• Finnish and Swedish membership would end their longstanding military neutrality.

The Western military alliance is seeking to bolster its resolve against the threat presented by Russia; and the Senate is anticipated to vote on a resolution ratifying; Finland’s and Sweden’s applications to join NATO on Wednesday.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat from New York; announced Tuesday night that the resolution and two GOP amendments; would be put to a vote Wednesday afternoon.

On the Senate floor, Schumer declared, “Our NATO alliance is the backbone; that has protected democracy in the Western world since the end of World War II”. This significantly fortifies NATO, which is essential; in view of recent Russian actions.

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden; are attempting to join the alliance; ending their long-standing military neutrality.

The Finnish and Swedish prime ministers agreed to approve their membership in NATO; before the Senate’s August break, according to Schumer; and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

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The majority leader also announced that he had invited the Finnish and Swedish ambassadors; to the chamber’s gallery to watch the discussion and votes.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has proposed an amendment that, if approved; would say that the alliance’s collective defence agreement; in the event that one of its members is attacked; would not replace Congress’ authority to declare war. The second, from Republican senator from Alaska Dan Sullivan; urges all NATO members to adhere to the 2 percent; GDP spending target.

At the end of June, NATO formally invited Finland and Sweden to join the organisation. The 30 NATO nations are currently debating these applicants; which need to be approved by all members. Due to their alleged support; for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party, Turkey first threatened to reject their membership; but it has subsequently dropped that threat.

For the resolution to be ratified, it must receive support; from at least two-thirds of senators. After that, the Biden administration will deliver the paperwork; to the coalition.

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