According to the Finnish president, it’s hard to see the end of the road to the war in Ukraine.
President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Finland on Friday for official discussions with Finnish President Sauli Niinistö and for a meeting with Prime Minister Sanna Marin (the SDP).
The discussions focused on the Russian attack on Ukraine. In a press conference following the presidents’ talks, President Niinistö said that it’s hard to see the end of the road to the war in Ukraine. However, both presidents strive to support the actions that could quickly lead to peace or even to a ceasefire.
The presidents also talked about the ongoing NATO discussion in Finland. According to President Steinmeier, “it’s not up to us to give advice to Finland [on joining NATO], instead Finland should decide independently.” “In whatever conclusion should you end up to, you can be sure that Germany will support you, and we are on your side,” Steinmeier said.
The Finnish and German presidents also sent a unified message to Russian President Vladimir Putin:
“Dear President, stop this madness,” Steinmeier concluded.
After the discussions and the press conference, President Niinistö and President Steinmeier hurried to the Parliament Building to listen to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s video address to the Finnish Parliament.
Later in the afternoon, President Steinmeier met with Prime Minister Sanna Marin (the SDP).
