While previously issuing vague statements of positive support for the Scandinavian countries' discussions on the controversial issue - given especially that Finland shares an over 800-mile long border with Russia - on Thursday Secretary of State Antony Blinken took US support further by saying for the first time the Untied States would "strongly support" Sweden and Finland pursuing NATO membership.

"We, of course, look to them to make that decision. If that's what they decide, we will strongly support it," Blinken told Democratic Representative Jim Costa (Calif.) during House testimony.

The US top diplomat added that it's "under very active consideration by both countries" but said that no timeline had been set - referencing statements from Finnish and Swedish top officials of the past days.

Also on Thursday NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg issued more statements suggesting the countries would be 'fast-tracked' after earlier this month saying something similar. He said according to The Associated Press:

"It's their decision... but if they decide to apply, Finland and Sweden will be warmly welcomed, and I expect that process to go quickly."