HELSINKI: Finland's top leaders said on Thursday they're in favor of applying for North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership, paving the way for the military alliance to expand amid Russia's war in Ukraine.

The dramatic move by Finland was announced by President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin in a joint statement. It means Finland is virtually certain to seek NATO membership, though a few steps remain before the application process can begin. Neighboring Sweden is expected to decide on joining NATO in the coming days.