Finland urges Germany to strengthen stance against Russia
During her visit to Berlin, Elina Valtonen, Finland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, warned Germans against "illusions in relations with Russia." She emphasized the necessity of a joint European defence against Russian hybrid attacks.
If anyone believes that Putin will relent if we lay down our arms, they are mistaken, said Valtonen, quoted by the Polish Press Agency. In her remarks, she likely referred to the positions of German parties: the left-wing BSW and the far-right AfD, which are calling for a ceasefire.
Everyone wants peace. (...) But peace does not mean surrender, stressed Valtonen in Berlin after Monday's meeting with her Nordic counterparts and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
The head of Finnish diplomacy noted that Russian hybrid attacks are felt in all European countries. She emphasized the necessity of joint defence, adding that she hopes "Germany will play a very important role here."
The position of the Finnish defence minister is not isolated
The Finnish defence minister is not alone in her opinion. - We do not want to live in a Europe where Russia wins — pointed out Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, quoted by the Tagesschau portal.
The Norwegian spoke about this during a meeting of ministers from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden who came to the German capital to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Nordic embassies in Berlin.
Warnings from Scandinavian ministers are not being given in Berlin without reason. A few weeks ago, Olaf Scholz himself stated that intensified efforts are needed to initiate peace negotiations. The German Chancellor also noted that Russia should also be allowed to participate in them. Though many perceive Scholz's words as a response to the harsh statements of representatives, especially from the AfD and the growing support for this group.
