Projecting weakness, rebuilding trust—Finland's decision to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO

Abstract

In April 2023, Finland gave up its long-standing policy of neutrality and non-alignment. The decision appeared fear-induced, rushed, and counterproductive, reflecting a decline in national mental capability, weakening Finland's status and credibility. The actions of all parties appeared to have been primarily due to unresolved emotional trauma and the subsequent application of the most primitive ways of social interaction. The essential next steps should be acknowledging the mistakes and wrongdoings of the past and rebuilding bilateral trust.

Keywords: Finland, Russia, Ukraine, NATO, military, emotional trauma, complex trauma, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, trust, diplomacy