Finnish politicians react to Ukraine war anniversary

Finnish leaders vowed that Finland stands by Ukraine now and in the future.

Petteri Orpo and Volodymyr Zelensky walk down steps while in conversation.
File photo from August 2023, when PM Petteri Orpo (NCP) made a visit to Kyiv, where he held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Image: STELLA Pictures/ddp/abaca press
  • Yle News
  • STT

Finnish political leaders marked the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine with a renewed call to support Kyiv.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) took to messaging service X to express Finland's commitment.

Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen (NCP) meanwhile issued a government statement saying Finland supports Ukraine's paths towards Nato and EU memberships.

"We remain firm in our demand for Russia to immediately cease all military action and withdraw its armed forces from Ukraine. Finland's support to Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity is unwavering," she said.

Valtonen added that Finland will continue to welcome people fleeing Ukraine and offer them temporary protection.

The ministry statement also said Finland supports establishing a special tribunal. "Comprehensive accountability also entails full reparation for damages caused by Russia."

Finance Minister Riikka Purra (Finns) meanwhile said Europe needs to step up support for Ukraine.

On Saturday, European Affairs minister Anders Adlercreutz (SPP) reshared a post of his cello performance marking 500 days of war in Ukraine.

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