Address by
Elina Valtonen

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland
to the Kyiv Security Forum

Excellencies, dear participants of the Kyiv Security Forum, dear friends! 

It gives me great pleasure to be able to address this very important forum and its audience. Unfortunately, I'm not able to be physically together with you in Kyiv, but next time.

Dear Ukrainians, rest assured, Finland stands firmly with Ukraine. Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, Finland has provided political, humanitarian, economic and military support. And we will continue to do so for as long as needed.

History has also taught us that international cooperation for peace is not a choice, but a necessity. For us, and for the whole of Europe, this is not only about solidarity. This is about defending the foundations of our rules-based order, and the principles that our democracy lays on. Moreover, this is about the values we share — freedom, human rights, and the right for each country to decide for their own future. These are also the values Finland was built on and which guided us through tough times.

Dear friends, day after day, Ukraine has shown its real willingness and commitment for peace. Unlike Russia, that has shown no readiness for a ceasefire nor for peace, quite the opposite. With deep sorrow and sadness, I have followed the reports of Russia's continuous offensives and air attacks. Russia has continued its merciless strikes against Ukrainian cities and residential areas, despite talks about peace. Deliberately targeting civilians, including children, is something that can’t even be called warfare. It is beyond cruel and a war crime. It should be easy for anyone to believe and understand that. President Zelenskyy has said, no one wants peace more than Ukrainians.

Ukraine is fighting for its own independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. It is fighting for the safety of Europe and for the freedom of us all. The future of the whole international rules-based system is at stake. Ukraine and Ukrainians deserve all the support we, together with partners, can possibly give.

Esteemed audience, this year Finland is chairing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Supporting Ukraine is at the heart of the OSCE's work during our chairpersonship. In the past, Finland has been able to contribute to promoting peace, both on our own continent, in Europe, as well as globally. This legacy obliges my country to continue the good work. It is in the interest of all of us to have a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. In the absence of it, there won't be stability in Europe.

Today, as we celebrate Europe Day, it is good to remember that the people of Ukraine have clearly expressed their desire to be part of Europe, which they are. The future of Europe and its people is within the European family. Ukraine has Finland's full support on its EU path. Thank you so very much.