Finland has pledged a new 200-million-euro (approximately USD 217 million) military aid package to Ukraine, announced on Thursday during a meeting in Warsaw between Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen and Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.
The package prioritizes artillery ammunition, addressing Ukraine’s urgent battlefield needs as it defends against Russia’s ongoing aggression. While specifics beyond artillery remain undisclosed for security reasons, the commitment elevates Finland’s total aid to Ukraine to 3.3 billion euros (nearly USD 3.6 billion) since the conflict began.
The announcement coincided with the signing of a memorandum of understanding, deepening defence cooperation between the two nations. This partnership will focus on intelligence sharing, joint research, innovation, and ammunition production, alongside defence industry initiatives in both Finland and Ukraine.
Häkkänen underscored Finland’s solidarity with Kyiv, drawing parallels between their shared concerns over Russia, informed by Finland’s long border and historical tensions with its eastern neighbor.
“Ukraine’s three years of resistance have forged one of Europe’s most capable militaries,” Häkkänen remarked, noting that Finland aims to learn from Kyiv’s combat experience to bolster its own defences.
This mutual exchange reflects a strategic alliance, with Finland viewing Ukraine’s position as critical amid rising regional threats. The move comes as European nations ramp up support for Ukraine, particularly following uncertainties in U.S. aid policies.