Russia demonstrates a desire for peace only in words, continuing offensives on the front, attacks on Ukrainian cities and the killing of civilians.

This was stated by Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland in her address to the 17^th Annual Kyiv Security Forum “UA: UNITE AGAIN TO DEFEAT THE GLOBAL AGGRESSOR”, organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk Foundation “Open Ukraine”.

“Ukraine daily demonstrates its genuine desire for peace and commitment to this goal. Unlike Russia demonstrating no willingness for ceasefire or peace. Despite talks of peace, Russia continues to mercilessly attack Ukrainian cities and residential areas. Deliberate strikes aimed at civilians, at children cannot be even called “war”. This is an abject manifestation of inhuman cruelty, this is a war crime. Everyone should clearly understand this,” she argued.

According to the Minister, Ukraine is fighting for its independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as for security of entire Europe.

“The future of the whole system of rules-based world order is at stake. Ukraine and Ukrainians deserve all the support that we, together with our partners, can deliver to them,” Elina Valtonen emphasized.

According to her, Finland’s OSCE presidency should aim at making support for Ukraine its priority.

“In recent years, Finland has actively promoted peace both on our continent, in Europe, and throughout the world. Our history obligates us to continue this important mission. We all are interested in a just and enduring peace in Ukraine. Without it, there will be no stability in Europe itself,” she concluded.

The Kyiv Security Forum, organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk “Open Ukraine” foundation, is the main platform in Ukraine to discuss problems of war and peace, national and world security.