Finnish PM Orpo Arrives in Kyiv to Discuss Reforms and Winter Prep

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo arrived in Kyiv on Thursday, October 22. According to the Finnish government, the purpose of the visit is to show support for Ukraine and to discuss assistance in preparing for winter, European Pravda reported, citing the Finnish government’s press service.

The press service said the visit is meant to demonstrate Finland’s support for Ukraine during Russia’s war. The prime minister is also expected to express support for the reforms Ukraine needs for EU membership.

During the visit, Orpo will meet several members of Ukraine’s political leadership, the Finnish government said. A Ukrainian-Finnish business forum will also take place, with representatives of more than ten Finnish companies taking part.

Finland’s aid to Ukraine

Finland is handing Ukraine a military aid package worth about one million euros, and preparations continue for the next, larger package. Finland also plans to provide a 50 million euro loan for Ukraine’s reconstruction.

Orpo’s trip follows the talks in Oslo, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met the leaders of Norway and Finland, as we noted in our coverage of the Oslo talks.