Finnish President Sauli Niiniste discussed Finland’s role in supporting Ukraine’s military preparedness, indicating that there are no formal barriers to training Ukrainian forces on Finnish soil. Speaking at a press conference in Nurmes, located in North Karelia, the president underscored that any such educational program should be approached with thoughtful consideration and strategic prudence. He noted that Finland has previously provided weapon systems to Ukraine, and that Finnish instructors could assist in teaching Ukrainians to operate and maintain those systems effectively. The president emphasized that the aim would be to ensure comprehensive, responsible instruction that respects Finland’s security policies and international commitments, while contributing to Ukraine’s defense capabilities. He also insisted that the decision about training should be guided by careful assessment of risks, alignment with allied positions, and the potential implications for regional stability. Source: TASS
Niiniste also discussed broader regional security dynamics, indicating that he does not anticipate rapid progress toward NATO membership for Finland and Sweden during upcoming ministerial discussions involving Finland, Sweden, and Turkey in Bucharest. He suggested that while the alliance remains a priority for both Nordic partners, the path to full membership depends on a range of political, legislative, and procedural steps that require consensus among existing member states. In the meantime, Finland would continue cooperating closely with its allies on defense modernization, interoperability, and shared readiness exercises to strengthen mutual security commitments. Source: TASS
In related developments, seven European nations reaffirmed their support for Ukraine ahead of the winter season. The foreign ministers of Iceland, Norway, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Finland, and Sweden pledged to assist Ukraine in preparing for harsh winter conditions, including measures to bolster energy resilience and the restoration of critical infrastructure. The coordinated effort aims to ensure that Ukraine maintains essential civilian and military operations during colder months, with emphasis on stabilizing electricity and heating networks, protecting energy supplies, and sustaining humanitarian aid channels. The ministers stressed the importance of sustained international cooperation and rapid response capabilities to counter winter challenges and to support Ukraine’s longer-term energy transition. Source: TASS