Finnish President Sauli Niinistö told a news conference on Thursday that Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine "shock to all"for the West had hoped for a diplomatic solution to the tensions.
"We have deep sympathy for the people of Ukraine. In Kiev, Kharkiv, Mariupol, Odessa and elsewhere, innocent people are experiencing the horrors of war," Niinistö said and added that Finland "strongly condemns" Russia’s actions and demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Niinistö also wanted to reassure the people living in Finland that there is no immediate threat to Finland’s sovereignty as a result of Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
"It is understandable that many Finns are afraid. I emphasize that Finland is not currently threatened. But this works [Finland] and has already contributed to" he added.
The Prime Minister spoke at the same press conference Sanna Marin (SDP) said that Finland supports the wider international community in support of Ukraine.
"We Finland, the European Union and the international community strongly condemn Russia’s hostilities against Ukraine." Marin said.
He added that the EU is ready to impose tough and strong sanctions on Russia.
"There is no price for peace, stability and human life," Marin said.
Marin: NATO application calls for ‘broad support’
The Prime Minister was asked about Finland’s possible accession to the NATO Alliance, which has been the subject of much discussion in the country in recent months as tensions in the Ukrainian region escalate.
"Finland is not currently threatened by an immediate military threat, but it is now also clear that the debate on NATO membership in Finland is changing." Marin replied, adding that Finland’s NATO application would require very broad parliamentary and public support.
Both leaders also spoke about Finland’s changed relationship with Russia as a result of the events in Ukraine. Niinistö said that this will be reflected in Finland’s foreign and security policy, as the situation is expected to continue for a long time to come.
Niinistö asked the reporter what he now thinks of the Russian president Vladimir Putin following the failure of diplomatic efforts and the launch of military action in Ukraine.
"The mask is now detached and only the cold face of war is visible," Niinistö replied.
This article will be updated.
Source: The Nordic Page
