Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo is set to bring up the critical situation in Ukraine at the upcoming EU summit, emphasizing the urgent need for more support. The heads of state from the European Union member states have gathered in Brussels for a two-day summit focusing on foreign relations and competitiveness.
During the first day of the summit, EU leaders strongly condemned Iran’s air attack on Israel. The European Council draft resolution expressed their strong condemnation of Iran’s attacks and urged all parties to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions in the region. Additionally, EU leaders indicated readiness to impose new sanctions against Iran, particularly targeting unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles.
Upon his arrival at the summit, Orpo highlighted Ukraine’s dire situation and emphasized the importance of providing anti-aircraft weapons and ammunition to support it. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi condemned Iran’s attacks on Israel and called for more unity from the West in response to Russia’s aggression.
While acknowledging differences between Israel and Ukraine, Orpo underscored that both countries require adequate support to prevent further destruction. The second day of the summit will focus on discussions around Europe’s competitiveness and internal market.
Former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta has prepared a report on competitiveness that he will present to EU leaders during this two-day summit. Orpo emphasized that building a competitive agenda should be a top priority for future commissions and discussed ongoing discussions among EU leaders on this topic with Letta.
Before heading off to Lappeenranta with President Ursula von der Leyen, Orpo mentioned plans to address Finland’s eastern border situation and discuss strategic goals for Europe’s agenda. This visit aims to open up communication channels between Finland and other countries within Europe while promoting strategies aimed at enhancing competitiveness within this vast economic union.
In summary, Petteri Orpo intends to raise important issues related to supporting Ukraine at an upcoming EU summit while also discussing strategies aimed at enhancing Europe’s competitiveness within its borders.
