International tensions on agenda at European Council – Prime Minister Orpo to represent Finland

The European Council on 26 June in Brussels will focus on topical international events. Items on the agenda at the meeting of the EU heads of state or government will include support for Ukraine, growing tensions in the Middle East, European defence and security, and strengthening the EU’s competitiveness. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo will represent Finland at the meeting.

The meeting comes immediately after the NATO Summit in The Hague, Netherlands on 24–25 June. According to Prime Minister Orpo, the EU and NATO are aligned in their objectives with regard to increasing defence expenditure, for example.

“The EU made decisions to strengthen defence back in spring. We must now see to it that these decisions are implemented. Europe has to build a strong, independent defence capability. The threat from Russia will not go away, even after its war of aggression in Ukraine is over,” said Prime Minister Orpo.

“We must especially invest in the areas where Europe can be defended most effectively, that is, at the EU’s eastern border. The events in Ukraine have shown that there is still a need for strong ground troops,” said Prime Minister Orpo.

At the meeting, the EU leaders will exchange views with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Prime Minister Orpo stressed that persistent support for Ukraine must continue as Ukraine works towards a lasting peace and EU membership.

“We have to ensure that Ukraine is supported in all possible ways, both now and in the future. In practice, this means moving forward with the accession talks, for example,” said Prime Minister Orpo.

The EU leaders will also discuss the single market. Prime Minister Orpo highlighted the importance of a well-functioning single market and capital market, along with leading research and innovation, as the cornerstones of a thriving economy.

The state leaders’ discussions will also address preparedness, hybrid activities and internal security, especially with respect to organised crime. Other topics will include the EU’s relations with the rest of the world, migration, the Western Balkans, Moldova and other key external relations issues.

Inquiries: Tuomas Tikkanen, Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister in European Affairs, tel. +358 40 523 5768, Juuso Kilpinen, Special Adviser (EU Affairs), tel. +358 50 433 4533 and Marko Ruonala, Chief Communications Specialist, tel. +358 50 522 8233, Prime Minister’s Office