The US House of Representatives passed a resolution supporting Finland and Sweden's applications to join NATO by 394 votes to 18 on July 18, Yle reported on July 19, 2022. All votes against came from Republican lawmakers.
The vote expressed political support; it did not itself ratify the accession protocols. In the United States, the Senate's advice and consent was required, with a two-thirds majority. That step remained pending when Yle published its report.
Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto said US support carried great symbolic importance and expected the Senate to vote before its summer recess. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said the Nordic countries would strengthen NATO's collective defence and Baltic security.
Finland and Sweden's accession also depended on approval by the alliance's other members. The House resolution did not mean either country had already become a NATO member.
Read more at Yle. House resolution record.
