Finland Changes Nuclear Energy Law to Allow Nuclear Weapons

芬蘭修改核能法，允許部署核武器

Jun 18, 2026, 04:20
EuropePolitics

Introduction

The Finnish parliament has voted to remove a long-term ban on owning and transporting nuclear weapons. This decision aims to bring Finland's defense strategy in line with NATO's goals.

芬蘭國會已投票通過，取消長期以來禁止擁有與運輸核武器的禁令。此決定旨在使芬蘭的國防策略與北約的目標保持一致。

Main Body

On June 17, 2026, the government officially changed the Nuclear Energy Act and the Criminal Code. With 125 votes in favor and 61 against, the law now allows the production, import, and storage of nuclear explosives, although the government emphasized that this will only happen if there is a military necessity. This change follows Finland's decision to join NATO in 2023, ending its history of military neutrality after the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

2026年6月17日，政府正式修改了《核能法》與《刑法》。在125票贊成與61票反對的情況下，法律現在允許生產、進口與儲存核爆炸物，儘管政府強調，這僅會在有軍事必要時才會發生。此次變動是繼芬蘭於2023年決定加入北約之後，在2022年俄羅斯入侵烏克蘭後，終結了其軍事中立的歷史。

There are different opinions regarding this decision. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen asserted that the reform will strengthen the alliance's ability to discourage attacks. However, some opposition politicians argue that removing the ban is a mistake because it could make Finland a target for nuclear strikes. Furthermore, while President Alexander Stubb stated there are no current plans to host these weapons permanently, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has shown interest in a French program that could involve stationing nuclear-armed fighter jets in Finland.

對於此決定存在不同意見。國防部長 Antti Häkkänen 主張，此次改革將強化聯盟震懾攻擊的能力。然而，部分反對黨政治人物認為取消禁令是一個錯誤，因為這可能會使芬蘭成為核擊目標。此外，雖然總統 Alexander Stubb 表示目前沒有永久部署這些武器的計劃，但總理 Petteri Orpo 對於一項可能涉及在芬蘭部署核武戰鬥機的法國計劃表示感興趣。

Russia has responded by claiming that this move increases instability in the region. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the change is a threat to Russian security and suggested that Moscow would take 'appropriate measures' in response. Consequently, reports show that Russia is expanding its military presence near the Finnish and Norwegian borders, including building new facilities in the Murmansk region. Analysts believe these actions are preparations for a long period of conflict.

俄羅斯對此回應稱，此舉增加了該地區的不穩定性。克里姆林宮發言人 Dmitry Peskov 表示，此次變動對俄羅斯安全構成威脅，並暗示莫斯科將採取「適當措施」予以回應。因此，報告顯示俄羅斯正在芬蘭與挪威邊境附近擴大軍事存在，包括在摩爾曼斯克地區興建新設施。分析師認為，這些行動是在為長期衝突做準備。

Conclusion

Finland has legally allowed nuclear weapons on its land to discourage potential attacks, despite strong opposition and warnings from Russia.

儘管面臨強烈反對與俄羅斯的警告，芬蘭已在法律上允許在其領土內部署核武器，以震懾潛在攻擊。

Vocabulary Learning

The Art of 'Nuance' (A2 →\rightarrow B2)

At the A2 level, we use simple words: "Russia said this is bad" or "The Minister said this is good." To reach B2, you must stop using 'say' and 'think' for everything. You need Reporting Verbs to show how someone is speaking.

⚡️ The Power Shift

Look at how the article describes people's opinions. It doesn't just say they "said" something; it uses specific verbs to show the intent:

  • Asserted →\rightarrow Used when someone says something with strong confidence. (e.g., Häkkänen asserted that the reform will strengthen...)
  • Argue →\rightarrow Used when someone gives a reason to prove a point, often in a disagreement. (e.g., politicians argue that removing the ban is a mistake...)
  • Claim →\rightarrow Used when someone says something is true, but other people might not believe it. (e.g., Russia has responded by claiming...)
  • Suggest →\rightarrow A softer way of saying something, or hinting at a future action. (e.g., suggested that Moscow would take measures...)

🛠 Quick Bridge Application

Instead of using the word "SAY", try this hierarchy based on the text:

If you want to show...Use this B2 VerbA2 Example →\rightarrow B2 Upgrade
CertaintyAssert"He says it's true" →\rightarrow "He asserts it is true."
DebateArgue"They say it's a mistake" →\rightarrow "They argue it's a mistake."
Doubt/SuspicionClaim"He says he is innocent" →\rightarrow "He claims he is innocent."

💡 Pro Tip: The 'That' Connection

Notice a pattern? All these verbs are followed by 'that'. Verb + that + [Full Sentence] *Example: "Analysts believe that these actions are preparations..."

Mastering this structure allows you to discuss complex news and politics with the precision of a B2 speaker.

Vocabulary Learning

emphasized (v.)
To give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.
Example:The teacher emphasized that the deadline for the project is this Friday.
neutrality (n.)
The state of not supporting or helping either side in a conflict, disagreement, etc.
Example:Switzerland is well-known for its long history of political neutrality.
asserted (v.)
To state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.
Example:The lawyer asserted that his client was innocent of all charges.
discourage (v.)
To persuade someone not to do something or to prevent something from happening by making it seem difficult or unpleasant.
Example:High taxes on cigarettes are intended to discourage people from smoking.
instability (n.)
A state of being unstable; a lack of predictability or reliability in a political or economic system.
Example:Political instability in the region has led to a decrease in foreign investment.
appropriate (adj.)
Suitable or proper in the circumstances.
Example:Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing for a formal job interview.
consequently (adv.)
As a result of something that has happened.
Example:He failed to study for the exam; consequently, he received a low grade.
Practice B2 words in a crossword→