President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with the current Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE, Finnish Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.
On January 1, Finland began its year-long chairmanship of the OSCE. Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted that Elina Valtonen chose Ukraine for her first visit in this role, which is a significant symbol of support for Ukraine. He expressed gratitude to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Finnish government, the President of Finland, and the Finnish people for their unwavering support since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Finland has provided 26 defense aid packages totaling over €2.3 billion.
Zelensky also noted Finland's participation in the first Peace Summit and thematic conferences following it.
"We count on your leadership and chairmanship in the OSCE. I want to discuss with you and your team what the OSCE can do for Ukraine, particularly for our children, our soldiers, and our heroic people held in Russian prisons," the President stated.
During the meeting, they discussed preparations for a special reinforced session of the OSCE Permanent Council dedicated to the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, as well as the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, the foundational document of the Organization. The principles of this Act also underpin the Peace Formula and the Victory Plan.
Special attention was given to strengthening sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet, which enables the aggressor state to finance the war. Elina Valtonen emphasized that Russia uses this fleet to undermine the oil price cap, posing a real environmental threat as well.
"As Finland and as the country chairing the OSCE, we will do everything to achieve a just and lasting peace for your country. Ukraine will remain a priority for the entire Organization," she assured.
The Foreign Minister also reiterated her support for the "peace through strength" approach and Ukraine's right to self-defense in the face of unprovoked Russian aggression.
