President and Ministerial Committee on Foreign and Security Policy discuss Ukraine, Russia and Syria

On Thursday 25 August, the President of the Republic and the Ministerial Committee on Foreign and Security Policy discussed the tense situation between Russia and Ukraine. Finland supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine and does not recognise the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia. The increase of tension in the region is a worrisome development. It is important to avoid further escalation of the situation. Finland supports the work of the Normandy format and hopes that the parties will continue talks as scheduled. The most pressing matter is to achieve a lasting ceasefire in eastern Ukraine.

The current conflict situation in Syria was also discussed. Finland strongly condemns military action against civilians and civilian targets. Finland hopes that the parties to the conflict will commit to a nationwide cessation of hostilities and to ensuring humanitarian access as well as to continuing the negotiations mediated by the UN.

Inquiries: Jukka Salovaara, Director General, tel. +358 295 350 636, Terhi Hakala, Director General, tel. +358 295 351 300 (Ukraine and Russia), Jarno Syrjälä, Director General, tel. +358 295 351 891 (Syria), Ministry for Foreign Affairs