Blinken supports NATO application by Nordic states

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken voiced confidence on Sunday that NATO members would support Finland and Sweden joining NATO.

"There is very strong consensus for bringing Finland and Sweden into the alliance if they choose to formally apply," he said following a meeting of top NATO diplomats in Berlin.

Finland declared a “new era” is underway after announcing Sunday its intention to join NATO, while Sweden has also already taken steps toward joining the alliance.

NATO member Turkey has raised concerns about the two countries joining, alleging they support Kurdish militants that Ankara considers terrorists.

Blinken said there were ongoing conversations being held between Turkey, Finland Sweden but stressed "when it comes to the membership process I am very confident that we will reach consensus".

On the sidelines of the meeting, Blinken met earlier Sunday with Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba to discuss the impact of the war and how to get Ukraine's grain to international markets