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Finnish President Alexander Stubb visits Ukraine, reaffirming Finland’s support amid Russia’s war. Highlights include a plenary session speech on aiding Ukraine.

President Alexander Stubb speaking at the national school peace declaration event in Hämeenlinna on August 28, 2024. Photograph by Tony Öhberg for Finland Today.
President Alexander Stubb at the national school peace declaration event, Hämeenlinna, August 28, 2024. Photograph: TONY ÖHBERG/FINLAND TODAY

Finnish President Alexander Stubb is currently visiting Ukraine, reaffirming Finland’s steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine as it endures its third year of resistance against Russia’s war of aggression, the Office of the President of the Republic notes in a statement on Monday.

As part of the visit, President Stubb will deliver a brief statement at a plenary session dedicated to supporting Ukraine.

This visit marks President Stubb’s second trip to Ukraine, following his prior visit in April 2024.

Speaking to the Finnish daily Helsingin Sanomat on Monday morning, President Stubb highlighted the significance of taking proactive measures when asked about the goals of the leaders’ meeting in Kyiv.

“I believe it’s crucial for Ukraine and Europe to take the initiative,” he stated. He went on to express his concerns about the current situation, noting, “The peace process and ongoing talks are at a standstill.” 

Speaking in English, Stubb described the situation as being “all over the place” and called for a more focused approach. “It’s time to pause and determine how we can move forward in a constructive way,” he concluded.

Several world leaders, including Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have traveled to Kyiv. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is expected to visit, while 24 other EU leaders will attend the Kyiv summit virtually.

Front page photograph: Emmi Syrjäniemi/The Office of the President of the Republic

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