Summary:

Finnish President Sauli Niinistö says that defence cooperation in the EU should be taken as far as possible, but he does not advocate a confederation but rather an agreement on defending the EU. Mr Niinistö does not believe Russia would try to influence the Finnish presidential election, like it is suspected of doing in the United States. He praises Sweden and other European countries for their eagerness to engage in bilateral Russia politics and believes Finland has shown the way in the matter.

Media:  Helsingin Sanomat (E-edition) 

Date: 15.1.2017

Journalist: Marjukka Liiten

Main source: President Sauli Niinistö