Finland is sending nine rescue vehicles to Ukraine to help the country mitigate the effects of Russian attacks, the Interior Ministry said in a press release on Monday.
The vehicles have been donated by four regional wellbeing services counties — Western Uusimaa, North Savo, South Karelia and Kymenlaakso — but the ministry's statement noted that every rescue department across Finland has been active in supporting Ukraine.
"Finland donated four ambulances and one fire engine to Ukraine in the summer. Assistance for rescue services makes up about 20 percent of all the assistance Finland has sent Ukraine through the EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism," Interior Minister Mari Rantanen (Finns) stated in the press release.
The ministry added that rescue services in Ukraine operate under very challenging circumstances and need continuous support.
In addition, the press release further noted that the approaching winter will make conditions even more difficult, as last winter Russia systematically tried to destroy Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and will likely attempt to do so again this year.
"In preparing for the winter, Ukraine has stated that its priorities include support for the energy sector; heaters; necessities such as winter clothes, winter tents, blankets and pillows for people displaced inside the country; and supplies for maintaining road infrastructure, such as salt. Donations through humanitarian organisations are the most effective way for private people to help," the ministry's senior coordinator Heikki Honkanen said.
The latest batch of equipment was officially handed over to Ukraine at a press conference on Monday morning at a fire station in Espoo. The event was attended by Ukraine's ambassador to Finland Olga Dibrova.
Users with an Yle ID can leave comments on our news stories. You can create your Yle ID via this link. Our guidelines on commenting and moderation are explained in this article. You can comment on this article until 23:00 on 24 October.