Hotline opened between Finnish, Russian defense forces

A hotline has been opened between the defense forces of Finland and Russia, the Finnish military said Thursday.

It is a phone line that is always open, Colonel Antti Lehtisalo, head of preparedness at Finnish high command, told national broadcaster Yle.

The connection is intended for all unforeseen situations, said Lehtisalo, adding it is primarily for everyday situations such as accidents, but could also be used if the situation on the border gets tense.

The line was agreed upon in the talks between Jukka Juuti, permanent secretary of the Finnish defense forces, and Alexander Fomin, deputy defense minister of Russia, last May. The line was opened in early November. The language used is English.

Defense Minister Jussi Niinistö said on Thursday that the line indicates both sides want to avoid misunderstandings.