Finland for strengthening Ukraine's negotiating position through military aid

The Ministerial Committee on European Union Affairs on Wednesday viewed that Ukraine's negotiating position must be strengthened through military assistance and other support and by imposing sanctions that impact Russia’s economic capabilities.

The committee at a meeting outlined Finland’s positions for the Special European Council scheduled to be held on Thursday in Brussels, where the EU leaders will discuss Ukraine and European defence, said a government press release.

In Finland’s view, the significant changes in the European security environment mean that the EU should be a stronger geopolitical player.

The changes are the result of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine and the intensifying competition between great powers.

Finland considers it important that the EU continue its strong response to Russia’s military attacks against Ukraine.

The EU must work towards a just and lasting peace in close cooperation with Ukraine and other partners.

Finland is open to various funding solutions to support Ukraine and strengthen comprehensive security throughout Europe. The changed situation means that Europe’s military capabilities must be improved and increased.

Finland will promote the mutually complementary cooperation between NATO and the EU that reinforces transatlantic burden sharing.

Finland supports efforts to promote the EU’s partnerships, especially with NATO, the United States, Canada, Norway and the United Kingdom.

Finland wants to see cooperation between the EU and the United States that is as close as possible.

The United States’ commitment to Europe, through both bilateral arrangements and NATO, is of central importance to security in Europe and Finland, the committee observed.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo on Wednesday presented his report to the Grand Committee of the Parliament of Finland on the preparations for the special European Council meeting to be held on Thursday, said an official press release.

According to the Prime Minister, Finland's aim is to increase support for Ukraine as soon as possible.

The European Council will discuss strengthening Europe's defence and security on the basis of a letter from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to member states and EU leaders' discussions in February.

The Grand Committee and the Prime Minister discussed immediate support for Ukraine and assessed the outlook for the peace process, taking into account, among other things, the decision of the United States to suspend military aid to Ukraine.

The committee also discussed Finland's preliminary views on the Commission's plans to strengthen European defence and possible financing solutions.