Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has hinted at potential military involvement in Ukraine’s security assurances, stressing the role of parliament in determining Finnish forces’ deployment.
Finland’s Potential Military Role in Ukraine’s Security
Petteri Orpo on the Role of Finnish Soldiers in Ukraine
Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated in an interview with Finnish radio Yle that his country will be militarily engaged in security guarantees for Ukraine. He emphasized that the specific and concrete role of the Finnish military will be discussed in detail, including parliamentary deliberations. “This is not a trivial matter, as it involves a decision on whether Finnish soldiers may be sent to missions that could potentially turn into combat tasks,” Orpo clarified. He also noted that Finland, due to its unique position as a neighbor to Russia, must first discuss its role with the parliament before finalizing its participation in Ukraine’s security framework.
Prime Minister Orpo: Risk of War Escalation Exists
Sweden has already declared readiness to send naval and air forces as part of Ukraine’s security assurances. Orpo did not rule out Finland providing similar support, such as limited air or maritime involvement. He reiterated that Ukraine’s own armed forces will form the foundation of its security guarantees. “Therefore, arming, strengthening, and training the Ukrainian army is the fastest, simplest, and easiest way to build a security system,” Orpo added. He also affirmed Finland’s stance: “Finland stands with Ukraine and will do everything in its power to end the war and ensure a just peace.” Orpo warned of the escalation risk but stressed that Finland is not under threat, being a NATO member with robust defense capabilities and intelligence.
Ukraine and the USA Discuss Security Assurances
Meanwhile, on Sunday, Ukraine’s Secretary of the Security and Defense Council, Rustem Umerov, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Chief of Staff, Andriy Yermak, met in Kyiv with U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. The talks included strategies to increase international pressure on Russia. Ukrainian Defense Minister Andriy Hnatov and Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsya also participated. Umerov highlighted the importance of systematic dialogue with the U.S. for ensuring sustained support and strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities. He also praised General Kellogg for the Order of Merit I Class awarded by Zelenskyy, noting it symbolizes gratitude for the U.S. support to Ukraine’s security. Kellogg also addressed the prospects for a just and lasting peace with Ukraine’s Parliament Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk.
Source: Gazeta, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/polityka/0, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/rzad#anchorLink, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/polityka/7, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/general#anchorLink
