Finland urges increased pressure on Russia following sanctions and military activities
Amid recent international sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union aimed at restricting Russia’s energy sector, Finland emphasizes the need for more assertive actions to pressurize Moscow.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen highlighted that while Western allies have taken important steps, these measures are insufficient to alter Russia’s strategic objectives.
“We must act more decisively, as sanctions should target not only financial aspects but also undermine Russia’s imperial ambitions.
The war in Ukraine is draining resources across Europe, but Russia’s economy shows resilience to withstand this pressure,” Valtonen assured in an interview with Bloomberg.
Besides supporting Ukraine, she noted that Moscow has intensified its modernization and rearmament of military forces near EU borders, signaling real threats to NATO.
Defense Minister Antti Häkämänen explained that these activities indicate potential risks, as Russia prepares for a possible second phase of aggression, especially near NATO borders, prompting the EU to strengthen its defense measures.