The MoU aims to enhance cooperation across several key areas, including defence materiel, intelligence sharing, research and innovation, ammunition production, and joint defence industry projects. Both nations view the agreement as a step towards strengthening their security and military capabilities in response to growing regional threats.
Minister Häkkänen emphasised Finland’s long-standing support for Ukraine, stating that Finland remains one of Ukraine’s strongest allies relative to its GDP. He underlined the shared security concerns stemming from their geographical proximity to Russia and stressed the mutual benefits of the partnership.
Ukraine’s armed forces have gained extensive experience during their three-year-long defence against Russia, making them one of the most battle-hardened forces in Europe. Häkkänen acknowledged the value of learning from Ukraine’s experiences in modern warfare to strengthen Finland’s own defence capabilities.
Alongside the new agreement, Finland announced a new military aid package to Ukraine, marking its 28th such contribution. The package, worth approximately EUR 200 million, is pending final approval from the Finnish Government and the President.
This new assistance follows Finland’s recent commitment of nearly EUR 200 million in January and a EUR 660 million industrial programme announced in February to boost Ukraine’s defence supplies. In total, Finland’s military aid to Ukraine now amounts to EUR 3.3 billion.
While specific details of the latest aid package remain undisclosed, Häkkänen confirmed that it includes artillery ammunition, which is in high demand in Ukraine. He highlighted the strong political and national consensus in Finland in favour of supporting Ukraine, as well as the importance of strengthening Finland’s own security through industrial cooperation.
