Sweden and Finland are beginning to gain promises of assistance if threatened by
Russia in the interim period between an expected application to NATO's military alliance and ultimate admission.
After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the two Nordic nations began seriously considering joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization,
fearing an unsafe "gray phase" on the bloc's border before full membership unlocks its collective security guarantees.
Russia has consistently warned both parties about the potential implications of their actions.
The United States is "prepared to provide various forms of security assurances" to both countries, according to the State Department. Ann Linde, Sweden's Foreign Minister, stated on Wednesday