Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen (right) and Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov shake hands after signing a memorandum of understanding in Helsinki on Thursday, 13 March 2025. Photo: Ministry of Defence via LEHTIKUVA
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Finland and Ukraine have signed a new defence cooperation agreement, strengthening military ties between the two nations. The deal was finalised on Thursday during a meeting between Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen and his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov.
At the same meeting, Finland announced its 28th military aid package to Ukraine, valued at approximately €200 million.
The package includes artillery ammunition, which is currently in high demand, though other details remain undisclosed. The latest assistance brings Finland’s total military aid to Ukraine to €3.3 billion.
Häkkänen stated that Finland and Ukraine share a common view of the Russian threat due to historical experiences. He emphasised that Ukraine’s armed forces have gained extensive battlefield experience over the past three years, making them one of the strongest in Europe.
“In developing our own defence, we should listen carefully to Ukraine’s lessons and utilise their experiences,” Häkkänen said.
The newly signed memorandum of understanding expands cooperation in areas such as defence materiel, intelligence sharing, research and innovation, ammunition production, and joint defence industry projects. The agreement reflects Finland’s long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine beyond immediate military aid.
Earlier in the week, Häkkänen visited Kyiv, meeting with Ukrainian government and military representatives to assess Ukraine’s needs. Meanwhile, Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen travelled to Ukraine for discussions with her counterpart Ihor Klymenko.
The signing of the agreement coincided with a meeting of Nordic defence ministers in Helsinki. As chair of Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO) this year, Finland hosted discussions on regional security and continued support for Ukraine.
The Finnish government has consistently backed Ukraine since the start of the war and remains engaged in European efforts to strengthen defence capabilities.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
