Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that the expansion of NATO is a problem and it is in the interests of the USA, reported Reuters. Russia has no problems with Finland and Sweden, he continued, but Russia will react to the expansion of military infrastructure in these countries. Putin added that Russia needs to pay additional attention to NATO plans to increase its global influence. 

Finland and Sweden both announced their commitment to applying for NATO membership over the weekend and most NATO nations have come out in support.