Russia destroys relations with Finland on political level: Finish Foreign Ministry states
Russia has destroyed bilateral relations with Finland, and on a political level, they no longer exist according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Finland, Elina Valtonen, cited by Yle.
The traditional annual event "Days of Ambassadors" has begun today in Helsinki, attended by the Finnish government leadership and representatives of foreign missions.
Among the speakers at the event are Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen.
According to the head of the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Valtonen, Russia has destroyed bilateral relations with Finland, and on a political level, they no longer exist. However, it is important to maintain communication in matters of diplomacy and border security.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs discussed Finland's goals regarding Russia's war against Ukraine
Valtonen stated that Finland's goal is to achieve a cessation of Russia's war in Ukraine.
"The summer uprising of the Wagner PMC showed that we need to be prepared for sudden turns of events. But at the same time, we need to be prepared for the war to be prolonged," says the head of the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The minister emphasizes that Russia bears responsibility for the war. According to her, Russia should also be compelled to pay reparations for the destruction caused during military actions.
The minister also clarifies that together with other Western countries, Finland is acting within the framework of international law when assisting Ukraine. She adds that strategic dependency on China needs to be reduced.
Support for Ukraine from Finland
In early July, Finland announced a new package of military aid for Ukraine, including anti-aircraft weaponry.
At the end of July, the Finnish government was tasked with developing a plan for the country's participation in Ukraine's reconstruction.