Finland to send arms assistance to Ukraine

On the proposal of the Government, the President of the Republic decided today that Finland will deliver 2,500 assault rifles, 150,000 cartridges for the attack rifles, 1,500 single-shot anti-tank weapons and 70,000 combat ration packages to Ukraine as material aid.

Following Russia's launch of a military attack, Ukraine has requested material assistance from the EU and NATO Member States. Several EU Member States have announced that they will deliver weapons and ammunition to Ukraine as material aid. The situation in Ukraine is extremely difficult because of Russia's military attack and there is an immediate need for defence materiel.

The joint meeting of the President of the Republic and the Ministerial Committee on Foreign and Security Policy on 24 February and 27 February 2022 discussed the situation in Ukraine and possible material assistance to Ukraine.

On 27 February, as part of international aid, the President of the Republic decided that bulletproof vests, composite helmets and emergency medical service (EMS) units be delivered to Ukraine. The Government also decided to authorise the re-transfer of artillery from Estonia to Ukraine. Press release 27 February 2022.

In addition, the EU Foreign Ministers decided on 27 February that the EU will support Ukraine through the European Peace Facility.

Inquiries: Sami Nurmi, Director of the National Defence Unit, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 330.