President Sauli Niinistö decided to bring clarity to the blurred discussion regarding military drills with the US on Wednesday. He said that the drills to be held this spring are technical and related to military skills, which develop Finland’s ability to defend the country. According to President Niinistö, they play no part in Finland’s view on NATO operations or Finland’s foreign policy. Finland’s security policy position is determined in so called Crisis Management Exercises, in which NATO partners’ position in relation to NATO is determined. « As NATO partner, we secure Finland’s territorial integrity. It is and will be the political content of Finland’s military drills », he added.

According to Finland’s President Sauli Niinistö, the refugee situation in Europe is as bad as it looked at the beginning of the year, Maaseudun Tulevaisuus writes. « The almost chaotic situation in Southern and Central Europe has led to each country introducing their own measures, which might not be in line with international agreements, » he said. Turkey and Germany have suggested that NATO would help in the crisis. President Niinistö thinks it could be the most effective solution but its compatibility with international agreements will be discussed.

Media:  Maaseudun Tulevaisuus

Date: 24.2.2016

Journalist: Riitta Ryynänen

Main source: President Sauli Niinistö