Finnish foreign minister warns Germany: Don’t be fooled by Russia
During her visit to Berlin, Elina Valtonen, Finland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, warned Germans against having "illusions in relations with Russia." She emphasized the necessity of a joint European defense against Russian hybrid attacks.
Valtonen said, " If anyone believes that Putin will relent if we lay down our arms, they are mistaken." She was likely referring to the positions of the German parties, the left-wing BSW and the far-right AfD, which are calling for a ceasefire.
Everyone wants peace. (...) But peace does not mean surrender, stressed Valtonen in Berlin after Monday's meeting with her Nordic counterparts and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
The head of Finnish diplomacy noted that Russian hybrid attacks are felt across all European countries. She emphasized the necessity of joint defense and added that she hopes "Germany will play a very important role here."
The position of the Finnish defense minister is not isolated
The Finnish defense minister is not alone in her opinion. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, quoted by the Tagesschau portal, pointed out that we do not want to live in a Europe where Russia wins.
The Norwegian spoke about this during a meeting of ministers from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden who came to the German capital to celebrate the 25th anniversary of establishing the Nordic embassies in Berlin.
Warnings from Scandinavian ministers are not being given in Berlin without reason. A few weeks ago, Olaf Scholz stated that intensified efforts are needed to initiate peace negotiations. The German Chancellor also noted that Russia should be allowed to participate in them. Many perceive Scholz's words as a response to harsh statements from representatives, especially from the AfD, and the growing support for this group.