What Russia warned Finland and tennis players on 12 May 2022
A look back at two international developments reported on 12 May 2022: a Russian warning over NATO and a French Open decision.
What did Russia say to Finland about NATO membership, and how did tennis handle players from Russia and Belarus? On 12 May 2022, both questions drew answers.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs threatened retaliatory steps against Finland if the country joined NATO. The ministry said these could include measures of a "military-technical" nature.
The same day, it was reported that tennis players from Russia and Belarus would be allowed to compete at the upcoming French Open as neutral athletes. Players who spoke in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin would face sanctions.
The two reports, one on security policy and one on sport, showed how the war in Ukraine was shaping international decisions on 12 May 2022.
