Zelensky welcomes Finland's readiness to apply for NATO membership

12.05.2022 15:00

Ukrinform

President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto cooperation in the field of defense and Ukraine's integration into the EU.

The head of state also welcomed Finland's readiness to apply for NATO membership, according to his tweet, Ukrinform reports.

"Had a phone conversation with President of Finland @niinisto. Commended the readiness of Finland to apply for NATO membership. We also discussed Ukraine's European integration. And Ukraine - Finland defense interaction," Zelensky wrote.

In a joint statement, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin strongly supported plans for their country's membership in NATO.

After the start of full-scale Russian aggression against Ukraine, most Finns voted in favor of joining NATO, for the first time in history. According to a poll by the Yle outlet, support for membership rose to 76%. Currently, 84% of Finns see Russia as a significant military threat.

Photo: Ukrainian President’s Office