The NATO High Level Group (HLG), the senior advisory body to NATO's Nuclear Planning Group (NPG) met in Helsinki, Finland, on Wednesday (21 October 2026).
The HLG met to consult on the NPG's direction to modernise NATO's nuclear capabilities and further strengthen NATO's nuclear planning capacity. While the strategic nuclear forces of the Alliance remain the supreme guarantee of Allied security, Allies underscored that NATO's nuclear deterrence is a shared responsibility, supported by Allies' enduring commitment to NATO's collective deterrence and defence, demonstrating the Alliance's unity and resolve. NATO maintains its nuclear posture to preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression.
Allies thanked Finland for hosting the meeting and praised its strong commitment to the Alliance. Since joining NATO in 2023, Finland has added real strength to the Alliance's collective deterrence and defence."
