Finland will provide a new aid package to Ukraine this week and join the PURL initiative to purchase American weapons for our country. This was stated by the head of the Finnish Ministry of Defense, Antti Häkkinen, before the start of the meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels, Ukrinform reports.
"This week we are providing a new support package for Ukraine. We have also decided to join the PURL initiative because we believe it is critical that Ukraine receives the necessary American weapons," said Häkkiänen.
According to him, Russia is now rapidly depleting its resources , as a result of which it is increasingly dependent on China and other allies. Therefore, Western countries should increase their support for Ukraine, as well as tighten sanctions against the Russian economy. Häkkinen stressed that "this is the only way to achieve peace."
The Finnish Defense Minister also noted that long-range weapons are critically important for Ukraine, as they could significantly affect the course of the war if provided. But the final word on this issue lies with the White House, which approves the transfer of such weapons systems.
"We see that Russia is a real long-term military threat to the Alliance, and it is constantly testing (NATO member states - ed.), including Finland... Now we understand that Russia is really building up its military capabilities - as a preparation for the second stage of its potential aggression. I mean, they are a real threat to NATO after the war in Ukraine is over... Strong national capabilities are a strong NATO, and this is how we can reduce the threat from Russia, together with the Alliance," said Häkkinen.
Earlier it was reported that Estonia will transfer tens of millions of euros worth of UAVs to Ukraine this week. In addition, the country has also decided to join the North-Baltic PURL aid package.