Amidst uncertainty surrounding the new Trump administration's approach to international cooperation, Finland signed the Artemis Accords on January 21, becoming the first nation to do so in 2025. This brings the total number of signatory nations to 53. The signing took place during the Winter Satellite Workshop 2025 at Aalto University in Espoo.
NASA's statement highlighted the significance of Finland's participation: “Today, Finland is joining a community of nations that want to share scientific data freely, operate safely and preserve the space environment for the Artemis Generation,” said NASA Associate Administrator Jim Free. “Forging strong partnerships between our nations and among the international community is critical for advancing our shared space exploration goals.” The agreement was signed by Wille Rydman, Finland's minister of economic affairs.
While celebrating this milestone, Finland's ministry emphasized its continued commitment to the United Nations as the primary authority for international space law, reaffirming its adherence to existing regulations. The surge in signatories, with 19 nations joining in 2024, led NASA and the U.S. State Department to attribute the growth to a wider recognition of the Accords' importance in fostering discussions about space safety and sustainability.
However, the "America First" policy of the new administration introduces an element of uncertainty. President Trump's January 20 executive order directed the new Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to prioritize American interests: “From this day forward, the foreign policy of the United States shall champion core American interests and always put America and American citizens first,” the order stated.
Opinions diverge on the future of the Accords under this new paradigm. Lori Garver, former NASA deputy administrator, expressed skepticism, highlighting the potential clash between the administration's approach and the inherent slow pace of diplomacy. Scott Pace, executive secretary of the National Space Council during the first Trump administration, conversely, anticipates continued international engagement, emphasizing its alignment with broader national interests.