Finland is expected to formally announce today Thursday its intention to join NATO.

This is reported by Reuters, citing diplomats and officials.

NATO allies expect Finland and Sweden to gain membership quickly, paving the way for an increased military presence in the Scandinavian region during the one-year ratification period.

Asked whether Finland would provoke Russia by joining NATO, President Sauli Niinistö said Putin would be to blame.

"I would answer that you caused this. Look in the mirror," he said at a news conference with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.