Russia says it will increase its security presence in the northern Mamans region. The announcement came shortly after Finland said it would close all but one of its border crossings with Russia. Finland says it has been forced to close its border crossings after a seeing number of Asylum Seekers at its borders.

Russia boosts security after Finland shuts border points

Finland's Ambassador to India Kimmo Lahdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds. In a conversation with WION's Heena Sharma, the envoy also spoke at length about the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, Finland's bilateral cooperation with India, the IMEC project, and, the unique framework called DESI (Digitalisation, Education, Sustainability and Innovation partnership). Tune in to watch the complete interview.

Finnish envoy speaks to WION on IMEC, G20, India-EU FTA & more

<p>Finland's Ambassador to India&nbsp;Kimmo Lähdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global&nbsp;South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds. In a conversation with WION's Heena Sharma, the envoy also spoke at length about the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, Finland's bilateral cooperation with India, the IMEC project, and, the unique framework called DESI (Digitalisation, Education, Sustainability and Innovation partnership).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's the full interview:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> India and Finland have traditionally historical ties. Next year in 2024, the countries will be completing 75 years of diplomatic relations. How do you look at it?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Finland's Ambassador: </strong>It's indeed an important milestone and I think we, as you said, have been enjoying a very good relationship. In the last few years it has become wider and deeper in many respects that we have, For example, we have partnerships in digitalisation, sustainability, regarding innovations, startups, and all kinds of things like that. Especially in the field of digitalization, Finland has a lot to offer to India because we have very advanced companies such as Nokia, who are developing solutions. Also here in India for 6G... already applying 5G here in India. We also have new interests in new areas such as quantum computing and atmospheric sciences, AI. To put things in order and make it more understandable we have also developed a new concept. We call it DESI. Coming from Digitalisation, Education, Environment, Sustainability, and Innovation. With this concept, we are trying to make the portfolio more visible and more understandable what we are doing together. Next week, we will have a visit of the Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Mr. Tavio, attending the 2nd CII India Nordic Baltic Business Conclave. He will also have bilateral meetings, and also, will then launch DESI, here in India. It was launched in Finland this September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-countries-request-for-war-crimes-investigation-in-palestinian-territories-660085">Five countries request for war crimes investigation in Palestinian territories</a></p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>How do you look at India, as a collective voice for Global South and African countries?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Finland's Ambassador: </strong>India succeeded very well in hosting the G20, including the summit. It was really a worthwhile effort and also raised India's profile as a spokesperson for the Global South. I would congratulate India. Also, of course the membership of AU, which was also supported by the European Union, is an important indicator of the relevance of the African countries. I think that will also shape the agenda in the years to come.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>India and EU are vying to take forward the FTA negotiations. What is the current status and if agreed upon how it will benefit India and Finland?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Finland's Ambassador: </strong>India and EU are strategic partners and we have many areas of cooperation and many mutual interests so starting from that point of view I think it is very important that we would also have an FTA, an Investment protection agreement, and an agreement on geographical indications. So all these free agreements would be important for mutual benefits. I think always, the negotiations for agreements need to reach a compromise that is really mutually beneficial. So that is the starting point. I think the EU wants to have ambitious agreements that would go beyond the existing multinational rules and for example our commitments at the WTO. So modern agreements will then be on important areas like market access government procurement and also digital trade.</p>

<p>We certainly had hoped that the negotiations could have been completed or could be completed by the end of this year. But as time goes by, it becomes more and more difficult to reach that goal. And there are still negotiations coming up in December I think. But if a breakthrough is not achieved, let's say by early next year, then I think the elections both in India and the EU will cause a delay in the negotiation process.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colorado-judge-rules-trump-can-stay-on-presidential-primary-ballot-despite-capitol-attack-incitement-660063">Colorado Judge rules Trump can stay on Presidential primary ballot despite Capitol attack incitement</a></p>

<p><b>WION:&nbsp;</b>The Israel war going on in the West Asian region has raised concerns about the viability of the IMEC project. How do you see it?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Finland's Ambassador: </strong>The project is a long-term project and it certainly has good logic behind it. So, I am still confident that the project has a lot of promise. But obviously, there has to be a resolution to the present conflict in the Middle East to enable the project to go forward. But in the long term, I am still very confident that it will have good potential.</p>


Finland's Ambassador to India Kimmo Lähdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds.

Finland's Ambassador to India Kimmo Lähdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds. In a conversation with WION's Heena Sharma, the envoy also spoke at length about the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, Finland's bilateral cooperation with India, the IMEC project, and, the unique framework called DESI (Digitalisation, Education, Sustainability and Innovation partnership). Here's the full interview: WION: India and Finland have traditionally historical ties. Next year in 2024, the countries will be completing 75 years of diplomatic relations. How do you look at it? Finland's Ambassador: It's indeed an important milestone and I think we, as you said, have been enjoying a very good relationship. In the last few years it has become wider and deeper in many respects that we have, For example, we have partnerships in digitalisation, sustainability, regarding innovations, startups, and all kinds of things like that. Especially in the field of digitalization, Finland has a lot to offer to India because we have very advanced companies such as Nokia, who are developing solutions. Also here in India for 6G... already applying 5G here in India. We also have new interests in new areas such as quantum computing and atmospheric sciences, AI. To put things in order and make it more understandable we have also developed a new concept. We call it DESI. Coming from Digitalisation, Education, Environment, Sustainability, and Innovation. With this concept, we are trying to make the portfolio more visible and more understandable what we are doing together. Next week, we will have a visit of the Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Mr. Tavio, attending the 2nd CII India Nordic Baltic Business Conclave. He will also have bilateral meetings, and also, will then launch DESI, here in India. It was launched in Finland this September. Also Read | Five countries request for war crimes investigation in Palestinian territories WION: How do you look at India, as a collective voice for Global South and African countries? Finland's Ambassador: India succeeded very well in hosting the G20, including the summit. It was really a worthwhile effort and also raised India's profile as a spokesperson for the Global South. I would congratulate India. Also, of course the membership of AU, which was also supported by the European Union, is an important indicator of the relevance of the African countries. I think that will also shape the agenda in the years to come. WION: India and EU are vying to take forward the FTA negotiations. What is the current status and if agreed upon how it will benefit India and Finland? Finland's Ambassador: India and EU are strategic partners and we have many areas of cooperation and many mutual interests so starting from that point of view I think it is very important that we would also have an FTA, an Investment protection agreement, and an agreement on geographical indications. So all these free agreements would be important for mutual benefits. I think always, the negotiations for agreements need to reach a compromise that is really mutually beneficial. So that is the starting point. I think the EU wants to have ambitious agreements that would go beyond the existing multinational rules and for example our commitments at the WTO. So modern agreements will then be on important areas like market access government procurement and also digital trade. We certainly had hoped that the negotiations could have been completed or could be completed by the end of this year. But as time goes by, it becomes more and more difficult to reach that goal. And there are still negotiations coming up in December I think. But if a breakthrough is not achieved, let's say by early next year, then I think the elections both in India and the EU will cause a delay in the negotiation process. Also Read | Colorado Judge rules Trump can stay on Presidential primary ballot despite Capitol attack incitement WION: The Israel war going on in the West Asian region has raised concerns about the viability of the IMEC project. How do you see it? Finland's Ambassador: The project is a long-term project and it certainly has good logic behind it. So, I am still confident that the project has a lot of promise. But obviously, there has to be a resolution to the present conflict in the Middle East to enable the project to go forward. But in the long term, I am still very confident that it will have good potential.

G20 raised India's profile as voice of Global South, IMEC has potential: Finnish envoy to WION

<p>Finnish officials on Friday (November 17) said that the country will erect barriers at four border crossings with Russia from midnight to stop the increasing flow of migrants which Helsinki says is orchestrated by Russia. Finland alleges that Russian authorities are funneling migrants as retaliation for its decision for enhanced defence cooperation with the US. Kremlin denies the claim.</p>

<p>The Finnish Border Guard has said that these barriers will be erected at four of the nine crossings with Russia at Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra and Niirala. They will be erected before 1900 local time (1700 GMT), as per Finland's public broadcaster YLE.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims to secure bridges in Kherson</strong></p>

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<p>The public broadcaster has said that physical confrontations have taken place between border guards and migrants.</p>

<p>YLE said that the guards used chemical irritant to repel a migrant and others were pushed by after a group of 30 migrant tried to storm through the border crossing at Niirala</p>

<p>"Our aim is to use barrier devices to prevent entry," the Border Guard's head of international affairs, Matti Pitkaniitty, told reporters. The measures were a response to changes in Russia's border policy, he added.</p>

<p>Russian state news agency TASS quoted Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov who said that Finland was making "big mistake" by choosing a path of confrontation with Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-ukrainian-troops-secure-several-bridgeheads-along-dnipro-river-659866">Ukrainian troops secure several bridgeheads along Dnipro river, push out Russian soldiers</a></strong></p>

<p>"(One can) only express deep regret that the Finnish authorities have taken the path of destroying bilateral relations," TASS quoted Peskov as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trumps-wests-sanctions-as-moscow-proposes-largest-ever-federal-budget-659280">Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus</a></strong></p>

<p>The Finnish Border Guard has said that about 300 asylum seekers mostly from Iraq, Yemen, Somalia and Syria arrived in Finland just this week.</p>

<p>Nearly 100 had entered Finland from Russia by midday on Friday alone, officials said.</p>

<p>There is a 1340 km border between Russia and Finland. It also serves as the European Union's external border.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Finnish officials on Friday (November 17) said that the country will erect barriers at four border crossings with Russia from midnight to stop the increasing flow of migrants which Helsinki says is orchestrated by Russia.

Finnish officials on Friday (November 17) said that the country will erect barriers at four border crossings with Russia from midnight to stop the increasing flow of migrants which Helsinki says is orchestrated by Russia. Finland alleges that Russian authorities are funneling migrants as retaliation for its decision for enhanced defence cooperation with the US. Kremlin denies the claim. The Finnish Border Guard has said that these barriers will be erected at four of the nine crossings with Russia at Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra and Niirala. They will be erected before 1900 local time (1700 GMT), as per Finland's public broadcaster YLE. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine claims to secure bridges in Kherson × The public broadcaster has said that physical confrontations have taken place between border guards and migrants. YLE said that the guards used chemical irritant to repel a migrant and others were pushed by after a group of 30 migrant tried to storm through the border crossing at Niirala "Our aim is to use barrier devices to prevent entry," the Border Guard's head of international affairs, Matti Pitkaniitty, told reporters. The measures were a response to changes in Russia's border policy, he added. Russian state news agency TASS quoted Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov who said that Finland was making "big mistake" by choosing a path of confrontation with Russia. Also Read | Ukrainian troops secure several bridgeheads along Dnipro river, push out Russian soldiers "(One can) only express deep regret that the Finnish authorities have taken the path of destroying bilateral relations," TASS quoted Peskov as saying. Also Read | Putin trumps West's sanctions as Moscow proposes largest-ever federal budget with defence focus The Finnish Border Guard has said that about 300 asylum seekers mostly from Iraq, Yemen, Somalia and Syria arrived in Finland just this week. Nearly 100 had entered Finland from Russia by midday on Friday alone, officials said. There is a 1340 km border between Russia and Finland. It also serves as the European Union's external border. (With inputs from agencies)

Finland to erect barriers to stop migrants it alleges Russia sent

<p>A court in Finland found three men guilty of committing crimes with terrorist intent after producing semi-automatic guns using a 3D printer.</p>

<p>The men had earlier subscribed to neo-Nazi ideology and are believed to be staunch anti-immigrants. The court noted that they intended to stage attacks against immigrants, critical infrastructure, and their perceived political opponents.</p>

<p>The prime suspect, 29-year-old Viljam Lauri Antero Nyman, was awarded more than three years in jail and charged with aggravated firearms offences. Nyman was also convicted of a narcotics charge at Tuesday’s hearing at Paijat-Hame district court.</p>

<p>His two partners were sentenced to one year and nine months in prison and received a suspended sentence of seven months, respectively, for their involvement in terrorism-related crimes, specifically the manufacture of firearms and training to use them.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Finland’s first terror conviction linked to far-right</strong></h2>

<p>This marked Finland's first terrorism conviction linked to far-right ideology, as reported by the public broadcaster YLE. These crimes occurred between 2021 and 2023.</p>

<p>The defendants believed that using violence against perceived enemies, including immigrants, ethnic and religious minorities, and anti-fascists, was justified in their quest to protect the supposed superiority of the white population, according to the prosecutors.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-russias-neighbour-says-outside-activity-damaged-gas-pipeline-645116"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Finland, Russia`s neighbour, says `outside activity` damaged gas pipeline&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, they planned attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as electricity grids and railways.</p>

<p>A police investigation determined that their activities did not progress to the level of preparing for a concrete act of terrorism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the same case, the fourth defendant, a 66-year-old man, received a one-year and two-month prison sentence for firearm crimes that were ‘not’ committed with terrorist intent.</p>

<h2><strong>Suspects had criminal record</strong></h2>

<p>All four men convicted had criminal records under their names. Last summer in Helsinki, one of the suspects attempted to disrupt a storytime event for children hosted by a drag queen at Oodi Central Library.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Finland mulls banning Nazi symbol of hate as racism scandal rocks new govt</strong></p>

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<p>Another suspect, born in 1996, was earlier convicted of drunk driving and other drug-related offences.</p>

<p>A third man, born in 2001, has links to Nazis from Oulu. The fourth suspect is also believed to have strong ties with far-right and neo-Nazi circles.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A court in Finland found three men guilty of committing crimes with terrorist intent after producing semi-automatic guns using a 3D printer. The men had earlier subscribed to neo-Nazi ideology and are believed to be staunch anti-immigrants.

A court in Finland found three men guilty of committing crimes with terrorist intent after producing semi-automatic guns using a 3D printer. The men had earlier subscribed to neo-Nazi ideology and are believed to be staunch anti-immigrants. The court noted that they intended to stage attacks against immigrants, critical infrastructure, and their perceived political opponents. The prime suspect, 29-year-old Viljam Lauri Antero Nyman, was awarded more than three years in jail and charged with aggravated firearms offences. Nyman was also convicted of a narcotics charge at Tuesday’s hearing at Paijat-Hame district court. His two partners were sentenced to one year and nine months in prison and received a suspended sentence of seven months, respectively, for their involvement in terrorism-related crimes, specifically the manufacture of firearms and training to use them. Finland’s first terror conviction linked to far-right This marked Finland's first terrorism conviction linked to far-right ideology, as reported by the public broadcaster YLE. These crimes occurred between 2021 and 2023. The defendants believed that using violence against perceived enemies, including immigrants, ethnic and religious minorities, and anti-fascists, was justified in their quest to protect the supposed superiority of the white population, according to the prosecutors. Also read: Finland, Russia`s neighbour, says `outside activity` damaged gas pipeline Additionally, they planned attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as electricity grids and railways. A police investigation determined that their activities did not progress to the level of preparing for a concrete act of terrorism. In the same case, the fourth defendant, a 66-year-old man, received a one-year and two-month prison sentence for firearm crimes that were ‘not’ committed with terrorist intent. Suspects had criminal record All four men convicted had criminal records under their names. Last summer in Helsinki, one of the suspects attempted to disrupt a storytime event for children hosted by a drag queen at Oodi Central Library. Watch: Gravitas: Finland mulls banning Nazi symbol of hate as racism scandal rocks new govt × Another suspect, born in 1996, was earlier convicted of drunk driving and other drug-related offences. A third man, born in 2001, has links to Nazis from Oulu. The fourth suspect is also believed to have strong ties with far-right and neo-Nazi circles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Court finds three Finnish men guilty of making guns with 3D printer and committing crimes

<p>A Chinese ship has come into focus in the investigation of the Balticonnector gas pipeline damage.&nbsp;Finland's National Bureau of Investigation has said that China's Newnew Polar Bear container vessel is being looked at for any possible role in damage to the pipeline.</p>

<p>The gas pipeline and a telecom&nbsp;cable connecting Finland and Estonia was damaged on Oct 8. Finnish investigators suspect sabotage. However, they are yet to conclude whether the damage was caused by an accident or it was a deliberate act.</p>

<p>Sweden said on Tuesday this week that a third link that connected Stockholm to Talinn was damaged roughly around the same time as the other two.</p>

<p>"The police have established in the criminal investigation that the movements of the vessel Newnew Polar Bear flying the flag of Hong Kong coincide with the time and place of the gas pipeline damage," NBI said in a statement.</p>

<p>"For this reason, the investigation is now focused on the role of the said vessel," the Finnish investigators added.</p>

<p>Estonian investigators are also looking into the incidents. After statement from Finnish NBI, the Estonian investigators said that they were still looking at two ships, the Newnew Polar Bear and Russia's Sevmorput.</p>

<p>Reuters has reported that only these two ships were present at all three sites and even roughly at the same time when the damages occurred.</p>

<h2><strong>The mysterious 'heavy object'</strong></h2>

<p>Finland NBI has stated that "a heavy object" was recovered on the seabed near the damaged part of the pipeline. The NBI said that it was investigating whether this object was linked to the incident.</p>

<p>"The investigation has confirmed that the damage has been caused by an external mechanical force, and based on current knowledge there is no reason to believe the damage has been caused by an explosion," Detective Superintendent Risto Lohi said in the statement.</p>

<p>The NBI said that a "huge clump of soil" deep in the clay on the seabed was considered to contain an extremely heavy object.</p>

<p>"Attempts will be made to lift the object from the sea for technical examination," Lohi said.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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A Chinese ship has come into focus in the investigation of the Balticonnector gas pipeline damage. Finland's National Bureau of Investigation has said that China's Newnew Polar Bear container vessel is being looked at for any possible role in damage to the pipeline.

A Chinese ship has come into focus in the investigation of the Balticonnector gas pipeline damage. Finland's National Bureau of Investigation has said that China's Newnew Polar Bear container vessel is being looked at for any possible role in damage to the pipeline. The gas pipeline and a telecom cable connecting Finland and Estonia was damaged on Oct 8. Finnish investigators suspect sabotage. However, they are yet to conclude whether the damage was caused by an accident or it was a deliberate act. Sweden said on Tuesday this week that a third link that connected Stockholm to Talinn was damaged roughly around the same time as the other two. "The police have established in the criminal investigation that the movements of the vessel Newnew Polar Bear flying the flag of Hong Kong coincide with the time and place of the gas pipeline damage," NBI said in a statement. "For this reason, the investigation is now focused on the role of the said vessel," the Finnish investigators added. Estonian investigators are also looking into the incidents. After statement from Finnish NBI, the Estonian investigators said that they were still looking at two ships, the Newnew Polar Bear and Russia's Sevmorput. Reuters has reported that only these two ships were present at all three sites and even roughly at the same time when the damages occurred. The mysterious 'heavy object' Finland NBI has stated that "a heavy object" was recovered on the seabed near the damaged part of the pipeline. The NBI said that it was investigating whether this object was linked to the incident. "The investigation has confirmed that the damage has been caused by an external mechanical force, and based on current knowledge there is no reason to believe the damage has been caused by an explosion," Detective Superintendent Risto Lohi said in the statement. The NBI said that a "huge clump of soil" deep in the clay on the seabed was considered to contain an extremely heavy object. "Attempts will be made to lift the object from the sea for technical examination," Lohi said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Finland probes possible role of Chinese vessel in gas pipeline damage

<p>Authorities in Finland said on Wednesday (Oct 11) that a leak that led to shutdown of a natural gas pipeline from Estonia to Finland was apparently caused by "mechanical" force and not a blast. They declined to speculate on the specific nature of force but previously said that "external" action had caused the Balticconector pipeline rupture. Finland shares a border with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News of rupture of the pipeline had prompted theories and comparisons to last year's Nord Stream gas pipeline leak.</p>

<p>"The damage appears to have been caused by a mechanical force, not an explosion," Detective Superintendent Risto Lohi from the National Bureau of Investigation told reporters.</p>

<p>"Nothing has been ruled out," Lohi added, referring to the precise cause of the rupture.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that the leak in Balticconnector pipeline which caused weekend shutdown of the line was probably caused by "external" activity.</p>

<p>An investigation into the cause of the leak in addition to the rupture of a telecommunications line that ran alongside it is ongoing. It happened at a depth of tens of metres down.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Finland tests world's first digital passport</strong></p>

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<p>The authorities said they have called on organisations and companies responsible for critical infrastructure to raise their level of preparedness.</p>

<p>"Damage to critical infrastructure, most likely deliberately caused, is a very serious matter," Janne Kankanen, CEO of National Emergency Supply Agency, said.</p>

<p>The operator of the pipeline said on Wednesday that it will take at least five months to repair the pipeline fully. This will leave Finland totally dependent upon liquefied natural gas imports for the winter.</p>

<p>The Norwegian seismological institute NORSAR said Monday it had detected a "probable explosion" in the area of the leak. Finland's government cautioned against leaping to conclusions.</p>

<p>Last year, a sequence of underwater explosions had ruptured Nord Stream 2 pipeline in the Baltic Sea which conveyed natural gas from Russia to Western Europe.</p>

<p>Natural gas accounts for around five percent of Finland's energy consumption, mainly used in industry and combined heat and power production.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Authorities in Finland said on Wednesday (Oct 11) that a leak that led to shutdown of a natural gas pipeline from Estonia to Finland was apparently caused by "mechanical" force and not a blast.

Authorities in Finland said on Wednesday (Oct 11) that a leak that led to shutdown of a natural gas pipeline from Estonia to Finland was apparently caused by "mechanical" force and not a blast. They declined to speculate on the specific nature of force but previously said that "external" action had caused the Balticconector pipeline rupture. Finland shares a border with Russia. News of rupture of the pipeline had prompted theories and comparisons to last year's Nord Stream gas pipeline leak. "The damage appears to have been caused by a mechanical force, not an explosion," Detective Superintendent Risto Lohi from the National Bureau of Investigation told reporters. "Nothing has been ruled out," Lohi added, referring to the precise cause of the rupture. On Tuesday, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said that the leak in Balticconnector pipeline which caused weekend shutdown of the line was probably caused by "external" activity. An investigation into the cause of the leak in addition to the rupture of a telecommunications line that ran alongside it is ongoing. It happened at a depth of tens of metres down. Watch | Finland tests world's first digital passport × The authorities said they have called on organisations and companies responsible for critical infrastructure to raise their level of preparedness. "Damage to critical infrastructure, most likely deliberately caused, is a very serious matter," Janne Kankanen, CEO of National Emergency Supply Agency, said. The operator of the pipeline said on Wednesday that it will take at least five months to repair the pipeline fully. This will leave Finland totally dependent upon liquefied natural gas imports for the winter. The Norwegian seismological institute NORSAR said Monday it had detected a "probable explosion" in the area of the leak. Finland's government cautioned against leaping to conclusions. Last year, a sequence of underwater explosions had ruptured Nord Stream 2 pipeline in the Baltic Sea which conveyed natural gas from Russia to Western Europe. Natural gas accounts for around five percent of Finland's energy consumption, mainly used in industry and combined heat and power production. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Mechanical force' likely caused damage to Finland gas pipeline: Police

<p>The Finnish government said on Tuesday (Oct 10) that a subsea gas pipeline and a telecom cable connecting Finland and Estonia under the Baltic Sea have been damaged. The government thinks that this has been a deliberate act and has blamed 'outside activity' for this. Finland is Russia's neighbour.</p>

<p>North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance was sharing what information it had on the damage and was ready to support the concerned allies.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Who is Russia supporting?</strong></p>

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<p>Finland joined NATO in April this year while Estonia has been a member of the alliance since 2004.</p>

<p>After concerns that gas was leaking, the Balticconnector gas pipeline was shut early on Sunday. It was feared that there was a hole in the 77-kilometre pipeline. Gasgridm the Finnish operator said repair may take months or even more.</p>

<p>"It is likely that damage to both the gas pipeline and the communication cable is the result of outside activity. The cause of the damage is not yet clear, the investigation continues in cooperation between Finland and Estonia," Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said in a statement on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo termed the damage "worrying" but also said that the energy supply to Finland remained stable and damage to telecommunication cable didn't affect the country's overall connectivity.</p>

<p>"It is too early to draw conclusions on who or what caused the damage," Orpo told a press conference.</p>

<p>He added that gas accounted for 5 per cent of Finland's energy supply.</p>

<p>AFP quoted a spokesperson for the Finnish defence forces who said that there wasn't any visible military threat against Finland.</p>

<p>The Finnish Bureau of Investigation has initiated an investigation into the external damage to the pipeline.</p>

<p>"We are still verifying if the damage is caused deliberately or accidentally," the bureau said. But it also added that the size of the damage indicated a deliberate action.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-rejects-russian-bid-to-rejoin-human-rights-body-645096">UN General Assembly rejects Russian bid to rejoin human rights body</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2022, the larger Nord Stream gas pipelines which cross the Baltic Sea between Russia and Germany were damaged by explosions that authorities have said were deliberate acts of sabotage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Finnish government said on Tuesday (Oct 10) that a subsea gas pipeline and a telecom cable connecting Finland and Estonia under the Baltic Sea have been damaged.

The Finnish government said on Tuesday (Oct 10) that a subsea gas pipeline and a telecom cable connecting Finland and Estonia under the Baltic Sea have been damaged. The government thinks that this has been a deliberate act and has blamed 'outside activity' for this. Finland is Russia's neighbour. North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance was sharing what information it had on the damage and was ready to support the concerned allies. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Who is Russia supporting? × Finland joined NATO in April this year while Estonia has been a member of the alliance since 2004. After concerns that gas was leaking, the Balticconnector gas pipeline was shut early on Sunday. It was feared that there was a hole in the 77-kilometre pipeline. Gasgridm the Finnish operator said repair may take months or even more. "It is likely that damage to both the gas pipeline and the communication cable is the result of outside activity. The cause of the damage is not yet clear, the investigation continues in cooperation between Finland and Estonia," Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said in a statement on Tuesday. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo termed the damage "worrying" but also said that the energy supply to Finland remained stable and damage to telecommunication cable didn't affect the country's overall connectivity. "It is too early to draw conclusions on who or what caused the damage," Orpo told a press conference. He added that gas accounted for 5 per cent of Finland's energy supply. AFP quoted a spokesperson for the Finnish defence forces who said that there wasn't any visible military threat against Finland. The Finnish Bureau of Investigation has initiated an investigation into the external damage to the pipeline. "We are still verifying if the damage is caused deliberately or accidentally," the bureau said. But it also added that the size of the damage indicated a deliberate action. Also Read | UN General Assembly rejects Russian bid to rejoin human rights body In 2022, the larger Nord Stream gas pipelines which cross the Baltic Sea between Russia and Germany were damaged by explosions that authorities have said were deliberate acts of sabotage. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Finland, Russia's neighbour, says 'outside activity' damaged gas pipeline

<p>Finland's government survived a parliamentary no-confidence vote on Friday that had been called over a racism scandal that has rocked the ruling coalition since it took office in June.</p>

<p>An official tally showed 106 members of the 200-seat parliament backed the coalition, while 65 members supported the no-confidence motion proposed by three opposition parties. The remaining members either abstained or gave blank votes.</p>

<p>Within days of assuming power the four-party, right-wing government was in turmoil after Finnish media revealed that several ministers from the far-right Finns Party had posted statements in the past that were widely condemned as racist.</p>

<p>In an attempt to stave off collapse, the government last week agreed on a policy to combat intolerance and brought it up on Wednesday for a plenary discussion.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Petteri Orpo of the conservative, pro-business National Coalition Party said he believed the government's new anti-discrimination policy had persuaded parliament to support the cabinet.</p>

<p>"I am really satisfied that the confidence was clear, everyone has been able to see that this summer has been challenging around this discussion of racism," Orpo told reporters after the vote.</p>

<p>"The government does not accept any form of racism," he added.</p>

<p>Parliament voted separately over confidence in Finance Minister Riikka Purra and Economic Affairs Minister Wille Rydman, both of the Finns Party, and they also won parliamentary backing.</p>

<p>Purra, who is the Finns Party's leader, apologised in July for anonymous comments she acknowledged she had posted online about 15 years ago, although she said many had been taken out of context.</p>

<p>The Finns Party's first economy minister Vilhelm Junnila resigned at the end of June, just 10 days into his term in office, after being accused of having made repeated references to Adolf Hitler and Nazis.</p>

<p>The party soon replaced him with Rydman, whose former girlfriend then leaked to Finland's largest daily Helsingin Sanomat his private messages that contained racial slurs.</p>

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Finland's government survived a parliamentary no-confidence vote on Friday that had been called over a racism scandal that has rocked the ruling coalition since it took office in June.

Finland's government survived a parliamentary no-confidence vote on Friday that had been called over a racism scandal that has rocked the ruling coalition since it took office in June. An official tally showed 106 members of the 200-seat parliament backed the coalition, while 65 members supported the no-confidence motion proposed by three opposition parties. The remaining members either abstained or gave blank votes. Within days of assuming power the four-party, right-wing government was in turmoil after Finnish media revealed that several ministers from the far-right Finns Party had posted statements in the past that were widely condemned as racist. In an attempt to stave off collapse, the government last week agreed on a policy to combat intolerance and brought it up on Wednesday for a plenary discussion. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo of the conservative, pro-business National Coalition Party said he believed the government's new anti-discrimination policy had persuaded parliament to support the cabinet. "I am really satisfied that the confidence was clear, everyone has been able to see that this summer has been challenging around this discussion of racism," Orpo told reporters after the vote. "The government does not accept any form of racism," he added. Parliament voted separately over confidence in Finance Minister Riikka Purra and Economic Affairs Minister Wille Rydman, both of the Finns Party, and they also won parliamentary backing. Purra, who is the Finns Party's leader, apologised in July for anonymous comments she acknowledged she had posted online about 15 years ago, although she said many had been taken out of context. The Finns Party's first economy minister Vilhelm Junnila resigned at the end of June, just 10 days into his term in office, after being accused of having made repeated references to Adolf Hitler and Nazis. The party soon replaced him with Rydman, whose former girlfriend then leaked to Finland's largest daily Helsingin Sanomat his private messages that contained racial slurs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finnish government survives no-confidence vote over racism scandal

<p>Finland's former prime minister Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats lost elections in April, said Thursday she would quit her parliamentary seat to become an adviser for a British non-profit organisation.</p>

<p>Marin said she had been appointed a strategic counsellor at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.</p>

<p>"I can also work for Finland in other capacities. This is a job that I feel will be of benefit to Finland as a whole," she told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finlands-outgoing-pm-sanna-marin-steps-down-as-party-leader-579476">&nbsp;Finland's outgoing PM Sanna Marin steps down as party leader</a></strong></p>

<p>Marin said she would "advise governments and leaders of different countries on policy issues that I'm familiar with."</p>

<p>Dubbed a "rock star prime minister" by the media, Marin failed to turn her exceptional popularity to retain power in Finland's general election.</p>

<p>Marin stepped down from the party leadership and had acknowledged that her four-year term as prime minister had taken a toll, saying "my own endurance has been tested at times".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finlands-fmr-pm-marin-steps-down-as-partys-chair-to-focus-on-personal-life-631717">Finland's former PM Marin steps down as party’s chair to focus on ‘personal life’</a></strong></p>

<p>Although a hugely popular leader, Marin was entangled in scandals relating to her private life, polarising her reputation.</p>

<p>In August 2022, leaked social media videos showing Marin partying with a group of Finnish celebrities made news around the world, prompting her to take a drug test to clear suspicions of wrongdoing.<br />
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Finland's former prime minister Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats lost elections in April, said Thursday she would quit her parliamentary seat to become an adviser for a British non-profit organisation.

Finland's former prime minister Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats lost elections in April, said Thursday she would quit her parliamentary seat to become an adviser for a British non-profit organisation. Marin said she had been appointed a strategic counsellor at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. "I can also work for Finland in other capacities. This is a job that I feel will be of benefit to Finland as a whole," she told reporters. ALSO READ | Finland's outgoing PM Sanna Marin steps down as party leader Marin said she would "advise governments and leaders of different countries on policy issues that I'm familiar with." Dubbed a "rock star prime minister" by the media, Marin failed to turn her exceptional popularity to retain power in Finland's general election. Marin stepped down from the party leadership and had acknowledged that her four-year term as prime minister had taken a toll, saying "my own endurance has been tested at times". ALSO READ | Finland's former PM Marin steps down as party’s chair to focus on ‘personal life’ Although a hugely popular leader, Marin was entangled in scandals relating to her private life, polarising her reputation. In August 2022, leaked social media videos showing Marin partying with a group of Finnish celebrities made news around the world, prompting her to take a drug test to clear suspicions of wrongdoing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finnish ex-PM Sanna Marin quits parliament for advisory role

<p>Finland’s former Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Friday (Sept. 1) stepped down as her party’s chair, following a narrow loss in the elections held in April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Immediately after having lost the elections, Marin had declared her intention to step down as the chair of the centre-left Social Democrats.</p>

<p>She had said her new priority would be focusing on personal life, after four tumultuous years of serving her nation as the prime minister.</p>

<p>She grabbed world attention and made headlines across the globe in 2019 when she became Finland’s youngest ever person to assume the PM role at the age of 34.</p>

<p>In her four years, she led the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic crisis. In her later years, she ended Finland’s neutrality over the Russia vs NATO conflict and openly backed Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Marin criticises Russia in last speech as chair</strong></h2>

<p>In a speech delivered on Friday before stepping down as the party chair, she again launched a scathing attack on Finland’s eastern neighbour.</p>

<p>"Russia and its representatives must be held accountable for the illegal crime of aggression, war crimes and the consequences of war," Marin said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia: Ukrainian boat destroyed trying to attack Crimea bridge | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>"In addition to Finland's steadfast support for Ukraine and the Ukrainians, we must also send a strong message of hope for the reconstruction of the country, for a European future."</p>

<h2><strong>Why Marin lost the elections?</strong></h2>

<p>In April, voters who were primarily concerned with issues such as immigration and a growing public deficit narrowly voted against Marin, leading to her defeat to the right-wing National Coalition and the Finns party. This election outcome resulted in the Marin government's collapse.</p>

<p>During her time in office, Marin faced several controversies, including partying at nightclubs during the pandemic, hosting private events at her official residence, and voluntarily undergoing a drug test after a video from a party was leaked to the media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/war-ravaged-ukraine-urges-india-to-fund-post-war-reconstruction-efforts-631679"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;War-ravaged Ukraine urges India to fund post-war reconstruction efforts</strong></a></p>

<p>Marin announced that the drug test came back negative and apologised to the Finns party after a photo from a party at the prime minister's seaside residence showed two well-known female influencers using a "Finland" sign to cover their bare breasts.</p>

<p>Following her electoral loss, Marin expressed her anticipation for a more peaceful life and later announced her divorce from her husband. While signing off as the party’s chair on Friday, Marin expressed her gratitude to her party for their support.</p>

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Finland’s former Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Friday (Sept. 1) stepped down as her party’s chair, following a narrow loss in the elections held in April. Immediately after having lost the elections, Marin had declared her intention to step down as the chair of the centre-left Social Democrats.

Finland’s former Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Friday (Sept. 1) stepped down as her party’s chair, following a narrow loss in the elections held in April. Immediately after having lost the elections, Marin had declared her intention to step down as the chair of the centre-left Social Democrats. She had said her new priority would be focusing on personal life, after four tumultuous years of serving her nation as the prime minister. She grabbed world attention and made headlines across the globe in 2019 when she became Finland’s youngest ever person to assume the PM role at the age of 34. In her four years, she led the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic crisis. In her later years, she ended Finland’s neutrality over the Russia vs NATO conflict and openly backed Ukraine. Marin criticises Russia in last speech as chair In a speech delivered on Friday before stepping down as the party chair, she again launched a scathing attack on Finland’s eastern neighbour. "Russia and its representatives must be held accountable for the illegal crime of aggression, war crimes and the consequences of war," Marin said. Watch: Russia: Ukrainian boat destroyed trying to attack Crimea bridge | Russia-Ukraine War × "In addition to Finland's steadfast support for Ukraine and the Ukrainians, we must also send a strong message of hope for the reconstruction of the country, for a European future." Why Marin lost the elections? In April, voters who were primarily concerned with issues such as immigration and a growing public deficit narrowly voted against Marin, leading to her defeat to the right-wing National Coalition and the Finns party. This election outcome resulted in the Marin government's collapse. During her time in office, Marin faced several controversies, including partying at nightclubs during the pandemic, hosting private events at her official residence, and voluntarily undergoing a drug test after a video from a party was leaked to the media. Also read: War-ravaged Ukraine urges India to fund post-war reconstruction efforts Marin announced that the drug test came back negative and apologised to the Finns party after a photo from a party at the prime minister's seaside residence showed two well-known female influencers using a "Finland" sign to cover their bare breasts. Following her electoral loss, Marin expressed her anticipation for a more peaceful life and later announced her divorce from her husband. While signing off as the party’s chair on Friday, Marin expressed her gratitude to her party for their support. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Finland's former PM Marin steps down as party’s chair to focus on ‘personal life’

After a series of racism scandals within the new Finnish government there are calls to ban the swastika and the hammer and sickle. Ben Zyskowicz, a Finnish MP has suggested ban the Nazi symbol as PM Petteri Orpo sets up a new working group to fight discrimination and racism. Molly Gambhir brings you the story.

Gravitas: Finland mulls banning Nazi symbol of hate as racism scandal rocks new govt

The NATO Summit US President Joe Biden has arrived in Finland this is part of his three Nation Tour.

Biden greets NATO's newest member, Finland

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Ahead of a bilateral meeting with Niinisto, Biden hailed Finland as an "incredible asset" to the NATO military alliance. "I don't think NATO has ever been stronger," he told reporters at the palace. "Together we're standing for shared democratic values."

Biden welcomes Finland to NATO ahead of summit with Nordic leaders

<p>Riikka Purra, the leader of the Finns Party and Finland's Finance Minister, issued an apology on Tuesday for the racist comments she made online more than a decade ago. This apology comes after her remarks were condemned by her cabinet colleagues.</p>

<p>Purra, who assumed leadership of the far-right Finns Party in 2021, was accused of making inflammatory comments in 2008. These included various anti-immigrant, anti-Islam, and racial slurs, as well as threats of violence.</p>

<h2><strong>The apology</strong></h2>

<p>Taking to Twitter, Purra wrote in Finnish: "I apologise for the stupid comments I made 15 years ago and the understandable harm and upset they caused."</p>

<p>"I'm not a perfect person, I've made mistakes," she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fi">Pyydän anteeksi 15 vuoden takaisia typeriä somekommenttejani ja niistä ymmärrettävästi aiheutunutta haittaa ja mielipahaa. En ole täydellinen ihminen, olen tehnyt virheitä.<br />
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— Riikka Purra (@ir_rkp) <a href="https://twitter.com/ir_rkp/status/1678756773434466310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-skips-nato-dinner-meet-due-to-hectic-workload-614747">US President Joe Biden skipped NATO dinner meet due to ‘hectic workload’: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>This controversy arises just two weeks after another Finns Party minister resigned due to similar issues.</p>

<p>As per an AFP news report, initially, Purra neither confirmed nor denied the allegations.</p>

<p>In a blog post on Monday, she stated, "It would not occur to me to start denouncing or apologising for what I did and said years and decades ago". However, she later acknowledged her past remarks on Twitter, stating that she used to feel "very frustrated and hopeless" about certain issues.</p>

<p>"I used to feel very frustrated and hopeless about certain aspects of immigration in Finland."</p>

<p>"Then you might say or write angrily and stupidly," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>The controversial comments</strong></h2>

<p>According to AFP, the controversial comments were posted under the username "riikka" on a blog that belonged to her predecessor, Jussi Halla-aho.</p>

<p>Evidence linking the blog author "riikka" to Riikka Purra includes coinciding visits to Barcelona, similar educational backgrounds, and both proclaiming to be vegetarian. These similarities were reportedly noticed by social media users.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/andrew-tate-claims-us-vp-kamala-harris-largely-incompetent-and-prone-to-playing-the-race-card-614739">Andrew Tate claims US VP Kamala Harris 'largely incompetent' and prone to playing the 'race card'</a></strong></p>

<p>President Sauli Niinisto weighed in on the controversy on Tuesday, stating, "it would be wise for the Finnish government to take a clear stance of zero tolerance on racism."</p>

<p>This incident follows another controversy in June when Vilhelm Junnila, another Finns Party minister, was forced to resign due to various pro-Nazi remarks. Junnila had made the remarks during this year's parliamentary elections.</p>

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Riikka Purra, the leader of the Finns Party and Finland's Finance Minister, issued an apology on Tuesday for the racist comments she made online more than a decade ago.

Riikka Purra, the leader of the Finns Party and Finland's Finance Minister, issued an apology on Tuesday for the racist comments she made online more than a decade ago. This apology comes after her remarks were condemned by her cabinet colleagues. Purra, who assumed leadership of the far-right Finns Party in 2021, was accused of making inflammatory comments in 2008. These included various anti-immigrant, anti-Islam, and racial slurs, as well as threats of violence. The apology Taking to Twitter, Purra wrote in Finnish: "I apologise for the stupid comments I made 15 years ago and the understandable harm and upset they caused." "I'm not a perfect person, I've made mistakes," she added. Pyydän anteeksi 15 vuoden takaisia typeriä somekommenttejani ja niistä ymmärrettävästi aiheutunutta haittaa ja mielipahaa. En ole täydellinen ihminen, olen tehnyt virheitä. 3/7 — Riikka Purra (@ir_rkp) July 11, 2023 × Also read | US President Joe Biden skipped NATO dinner meet due to ‘hectic workload’: Report This controversy arises just two weeks after another Finns Party minister resigned due to similar issues. As per an AFP news report, initially, Purra neither confirmed nor denied the allegations. In a blog post on Monday, she stated, "It would not occur to me to start denouncing or apologising for what I did and said years and decades ago". However, she later acknowledged her past remarks on Twitter, stating that she used to feel "very frustrated and hopeless" about certain issues. "I used to feel very frustrated and hopeless about certain aspects of immigration in Finland." "Then you might say or write angrily and stupidly," she added. The controversial comments According to AFP, the controversial comments were posted under the username "riikka" on a blog that belonged to her predecessor, Jussi Halla-aho. Evidence linking the blog author "riikka" to Riikka Purra includes coinciding visits to Barcelona, similar educational backgrounds, and both proclaiming to be vegetarian. These similarities were reportedly noticed by social media users. Also read | Andrew Tate claims US VP Kamala Harris 'largely incompetent' and prone to playing the 'race card' President Sauli Niinisto weighed in on the controversy on Tuesday, stating, "it would be wise for the Finnish government to take a clear stance of zero tolerance on racism." This incident follows another controversy in June when Vilhelm Junnila, another Finns Party minister, was forced to resign due to various pro-Nazi remarks. Junnila had made the remarks during this year's parliamentary elections. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Finnish Finance Minister Riikka Purra apologises for past racist remarks amid cabinet criticism

A tit-for-tat move Russia has announced that it was shutting finland's Consulate in Saint Petersburg it is also expelling line of its diplomats Russia called move a response to finland's confrontation confrontational anti-russian policy earlier this month when Lynn expelled nine diplomats working at the Russian Embassy in Helsinki for acting as in intelligence capacity.

Tit for tat move or a counter measure as Russia expels nine Finnish diplomats

Vilhelm Junnila, Finland's Economy Minister, resigned on Friday, 10 days after taking office, after being accused of making multiple extremist comments about neo-nazi ideology. He quit amid a new scandal over his remarks on African women.

Finnish Minister resigns amid criticism over pro-Nazi comments

<p>In today's world, going on a vacation makes it compulsory for people to share their pictures on social media platforms, especially Instagram. For social media users, it is really difficult to imagine travelling without posting about it online. However, for those headed to the island of Ulko-Tammio in Finland during the tourism season, their nightmare of no photos of vacation mode on social media may become a reality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The island has been appealing to its visitors to avoid their mobile phones and enjoy the beauty of nature.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No Nokia allowed?</strong></h2>

<p>Island Ulko-Tammio, which is located in the Eastern Gulf of Finland and has received the tag of “world’s happiest country” six years in a row, has claimed to be the first phone-free tourist island of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ironically, this national park in the Nordic nation is home to Nokia, a brand which became a household name for making the best-selling smartphone of all time in the world.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/austrian-town-that-inspired-disneys-frozen-erects-fence-to-stop-tourists-from-taking-selfies-594422">Austrian town, that inspired Disney's Frozen, erects fence to stop tourists from taking selfies</a></p>

<p>“The island of Ulko-Tammio, which is located off the coast of Hamina, will be a phone-free area this summer,” said Mats Selin, an expert in island tourism at Visit Kotka-Hamina, in a press release.</p>

<p>“We want to urge holidaymakers to switch off their smart devices and to stop and genuinely enjoy the islands," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Voluntary digital detox&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ulko-Tammio, which is one of the 41 national parks of Finland, is home to many people and also rare birds and plants, which can be spotted easily by visitors while on a hike along the nature trails of the island or from the bird tower of the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, tourists can voluntarily participate in the digital detox while in Ulko-Tammio, since a functioning mobile network is present on the island and hence, the temptation will remain ever-present.</p>

<p>However, the staff members associated with Parks &amp; Wildlife Finland, the company which manages the island, have expressed hope that the campaign inspires tourists to unplug and engage with the flora and fauna.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION aboard 'The Empress' | India's first international cruise to Sri Lanka</strong></p>

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<p>“Switching off your phone, exploring nature and meeting people face-to-face are bound to boost your mood and well-being,” said Sari Castren, psychologist and Research Manager at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, in a news release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We spend countless hours scrolling our social media feeds, so taking a short break from them means you have more time for new experiences," Castren added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Islands like Ulko-Tammio located in the Eastern Gulf of Finland are generally reached via private boat, commuter ferry, or water taxi.&nbsp;</p>

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In today's world, going on a vacation makes it compulsory for people to share their pictures on social media platforms, especially Instagram. For social media users, it is really difficult to imagine travelling without posting about it online.

In today's world, going on a vacation makes it compulsory for people to share their pictures on social media platforms, especially Instagram. For social media users, it is really difficult to imagine travelling without posting about it online. However, for those headed to the island of Ulko-Tammio in Finland during the tourism season, their nightmare of no photos of vacation mode on social media may become a reality. The island has been appealing to its visitors to avoid their mobile phones and enjoy the beauty of nature. No Nokia allowed? Island Ulko-Tammio, which is located in the Eastern Gulf of Finland and has received the tag of “world’s happiest country” six years in a row, has claimed to be the first phone-free tourist island of the world. Ironically, this national park in the Nordic nation is home to Nokia, a brand which became a household name for making the best-selling smartphone of all time in the world. ALSO READ | Austrian town, that inspired Disney's Frozen, erects fence to stop tourists from taking selfies “The island of Ulko-Tammio, which is located off the coast of Hamina, will be a phone-free area this summer,” said Mats Selin, an expert in island tourism at Visit Kotka-Hamina, in a press release. “We want to urge holidaymakers to switch off their smart devices and to stop and genuinely enjoy the islands," he added. Voluntary digital detox Ulko-Tammio, which is one of the 41 national parks of Finland, is home to many people and also rare birds and plants, which can be spotted easily by visitors while on a hike along the nature trails of the island or from the bird tower of the island. However, tourists can voluntarily participate in the digital detox while in Ulko-Tammio, since a functioning mobile network is present on the island and hence, the temptation will remain ever-present. However, the staff members associated with Parks & Wildlife Finland, the company which manages the island, have expressed hope that the campaign inspires tourists to unplug and engage with the flora and fauna. WATCH | WION aboard 'The Empress' | India's first international cruise to Sri Lanka “Switching off your phone, exploring nature and meeting people face-to-face are bound to boost your mood and well-being,” said Sari Castren, psychologist and Research Manager at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, in a news release. “We spend countless hours scrolling our social media feeds, so taking a short break from them means you have more time for new experiences," Castren added. Islands like Ulko-Tammio located in the Eastern Gulf of Finland are generally reached via private boat, commuter ferry, or water taxi. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mobile-free vacation? This tourist island in Europe, home to Nokia, has declared itself a 'phone-free' zone

<p>In a significant political development, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the conservative party in Finland, has been elected as the country's prime minister by the parliament. Orpo will lead a coalition government comprising four parties, including the far-right Finns Party, which intends to implement strict measures on immigration. This move comes after Orpo's victory in the April elections and subsequent negotiations to form a coalition government, as reported by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Election of Petteri Orpo</strong></h2>

<p>With 107 members in favour, 81 opposed, and 11 absent, the parliament expressed its support for Orpo, who emerged victorious in the April elections. His victory initiated negotiations for a coalition government, which have been ongoing since then.</p>

<p>Later today, President Sauli Niinisto is scheduled to formally appoint Orpo as the new prime minister, succeeding Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats finished third in the elections, trailing Orpo's National Coalition Party (NCP) and the Finns Party.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-liz-truss-to-sanna-marin-women-in-power-across-europe-519856">From Liz Truss to Sanna Marin: Women in power across Europe</a></p>

<h2><strong>Coalition composition and objectives</strong></h2>

<p>The coalition, in addition to the NCP and the Finns Party, includes the smaller Swedish People's Party (RKP) and the Christian Democrats. Orpo's campaign emphasised austerity, with a pledge to reduce spending by six billion euros over a four-year period.</p>

<h2><strong>Immigration reforms and potential challenges</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, the newly formed coalition introduced a "paradigm shift" in immigration policy. The plan aims to reduce the number of refugees accepted through the UN refugee agency from 1,050 per year to 500 and to establish separate social security benefit systems for immigrants and permanent residents. Experts have raised concerns that these proposed changes may potentially violate the Constitution.</p>

<p>Finns Party leader Riikka Purra also highlighted plans to tighten the criteria for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. These reforms reflect the coalition's focus on addressing immigration-related challenges and enforcing stricter regulations in this domain.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Making a gradual ascent up the hierarchical ladder</strong></h2>

<p>Petteri Orpo, born in Köyliö in the southwestern region of Finland, holds a master's degree in social sciences from the nearby Turku University, as stated in his resume&nbsp;available on the parliament's website. He is married and has two children. In his personal profile, it is mentioned that his interests include cooking and fishing, as reported by Politico.</p>

<p>Orpo's involvement with the National Coalition Party (NCP) dates back to the 1990s. He served as the Minister of Agriculture under former NCP Prime Minister Stubb and later held positions as the Minister of Interior and Finance under Center Party Premier Juha Sipilä.</p>

<p>In 2016, Orpo contested the leadership of the NCP against Stubb, accusing him of causing a decline in voter support. Orpo campaigned on the promise of rebuilding unity within the party and leading it back to power. In a party vote, he convincingly defeated Stubb.</p>

<p>Following a narrow defeat in the 2019 elections, Orpo made the decision for his party to enter opposition rather than join a coalition with the Social Democrats. He embarked on the task of rebuilding the party's image as a traditional centre-right economic alternative, emphasising a willingness to reduce public spending and limit tax increases.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a significant political development, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the conservative party in Finland, has been elected as the country's prime minister by the parliament.

In a significant political development, Petteri Orpo, the leader of the conservative party in Finland, has been elected as the country's prime minister by the parliament. Orpo will lead a coalition government comprising four parties, including the far-right Finns Party, which intends to implement strict measures on immigration. This move comes after Orpo's victory in the April elections and subsequent negotiations to form a coalition government, as reported by AFP. Election of Petteri Orpo With 107 members in favour, 81 opposed, and 11 absent, the parliament expressed its support for Orpo, who emerged victorious in the April elections. His victory initiated negotiations for a coalition government, which have been ongoing since then. Later today, President Sauli Niinisto is scheduled to formally appoint Orpo as the new prime minister, succeeding Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats finished third in the elections, trailing Orpo's National Coalition Party (NCP) and the Finns Party. Also read | From Liz Truss to Sanna Marin: Women in power across Europe Coalition composition and objectives The coalition, in addition to the NCP and the Finns Party, includes the smaller Swedish People's Party (RKP) and the Christian Democrats. Orpo's campaign emphasised austerity, with a pledge to reduce spending by six billion euros over a four-year period. Immigration reforms and potential challenges Last week, the newly formed coalition introduced a "paradigm shift" in immigration policy. The plan aims to reduce the number of refugees accepted through the UN refugee agency from 1,050 per year to 500 and to establish separate social security benefit systems for immigrants and permanent residents. Experts have raised concerns that these proposed changes may potentially violate the Constitution. Finns Party leader Riikka Purra also highlighted plans to tighten the criteria for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. These reforms reflect the coalition's focus on addressing immigration-related challenges and enforcing stricter regulations in this domain. Also watch | Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war? Making a gradual ascent up the hierarchical ladder Petteri Orpo, born in Köyliö in the southwestern region of Finland, holds a master's degree in social sciences from the nearby Turku University, as stated in his resume available on the parliament's website. He is married and has two children. In his personal profile, it is mentioned that his interests include cooking and fishing, as reported by Politico. Orpo's involvement with the National Coalition Party (NCP) dates back to the 1990s. He served as the Minister of Agriculture under former NCP Prime Minister Stubb and later held positions as the Minister of Interior and Finance under Center Party Premier Juha Sipilä. In 2016, Orpo contested the leadership of the NCP against Stubb, accusing him of causing a decline in voter support. Orpo campaigned on the promise of rebuilding unity within the party and leading it back to power. In a party vote, he convincingly defeated Stubb. Following a narrow defeat in the 2019 elections, Orpo made the decision for his party to enter opposition rather than join a coalition with the Social Democrats. He embarked on the task of rebuilding the party's image as a traditional centre-right economic alternative, emphasising a willingness to reduce public spending and limit tax increases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Finland: Parliament elects conservative leader Petteri Orpo as PM

<p><strong>Finland's conservative National Coalition Party&nbsp;(NCP)</strong>, which emerged as the winner in the parliamentary election held in April, has successfully formed a majority government with the euro-sceptic and anti-immigration Finns Party, along with two smaller groups. This significant development was announced by NCP leader Petteri Orpo on Thursday, signalling a shift towards the right in Finnish politics and pushing left-wing Prime Minister Sanna Marin's party into opposition.</p>

<p>Orpo expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "All issues have been resolved and the papers are ready," referring to the government programme that has been agreed upon. The NCP leader, known for his fiscal conservative stance, is poised to become Finland's next prime minister as a result of this coalition formation.</p>

<h2><strong>Negotiations took 11 weeks to complete</strong></h2>

<p>Over the course of 11 weeks, negotiations took place to determine how Finland would be governed for the next four years. The Finns Party and the Swedish People's Party, which represent minority-language speakers, faced challenges in finding common ground on key issues such as immigration, climate policy, and public finances. However, after intensive discussions, a compromise was reached, enabling the formation of the coalition government.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>Orpo's government is expected to prioritise measures aimed at reducing the fiscal deficit, which includes cuts to unemployment and welfare benefits. Additionally, there will likely be a tightening of immigration policies while environmental commitments are relaxed. Although the exact details of each policy area remain unclear, as they were subject to rigorous negotiations, it is evident that this right-wing coalition will bring significant changes to Finland's governance and policies.</p>

<h2><strong>A glance at the results of April general elections</strong></h2>

<p>One of Orpo's objectives has been to lower taxes and divest government-controlled company holdings, but he refrained from providing further details at this time. The National Coalition Party secured 48 seats in the April 2 election, slightly ahead of the Finns Party with 46 seats. The Social Democrats, led by outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin, came in third with 43 elected members in the 200-seat parliament.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millionaire-fined-a-record-130000-for-speeding-in-finland-where-penalties-are-based-on-income-601489"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Millionaire fined a record $130,000 for speeding in Finland, where penalties are based on income</strong></a></p>

<p>In order to secure a majority, Orpo included the Swedish People's Party, which holds nine seats, and the Christian Democrats with five seats, bringing the total support for the government to 108 seats.</p>

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Finland's conservative National Coalition Party (NCP), which emerged as the winner in the parliamentary election held in April, has successfully formed a majority government with the euro-sceptic and anti-immigration Finns Party, along with two smaller groups.

Finland's conservative National Coalition Party (NCP), which emerged as the winner in the parliamentary election held in April, has successfully formed a majority government with the euro-sceptic and anti-immigration Finns Party, along with two smaller groups. This significant development was announced by NCP leader Petteri Orpo on Thursday, signalling a shift towards the right in Finnish politics and pushing left-wing Prime Minister Sanna Marin's party into opposition. Orpo expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "All issues have been resolved and the papers are ready," referring to the government programme that has been agreed upon. The NCP leader, known for his fiscal conservative stance, is poised to become Finland's next prime minister as a result of this coalition formation. Negotiations took 11 weeks to complete Over the course of 11 weeks, negotiations took place to determine how Finland would be governed for the next four years. The Finns Party and the Swedish People's Party, which represent minority-language speakers, faced challenges in finding common ground on key issues such as immigration, climate policy, and public finances. However, after intensive discussions, a compromise was reached, enabling the formation of the coalition government. Watch: Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war? × Orpo's government is expected to prioritise measures aimed at reducing the fiscal deficit, which includes cuts to unemployment and welfare benefits. Additionally, there will likely be a tightening of immigration policies while environmental commitments are relaxed. Although the exact details of each policy area remain unclear, as they were subject to rigorous negotiations, it is evident that this right-wing coalition will bring significant changes to Finland's governance and policies. A glance at the results of April general elections One of Orpo's objectives has been to lower taxes and divest government-controlled company holdings, but he refrained from providing further details at this time. The National Coalition Party secured 48 seats in the April 2 election, slightly ahead of the Finns Party with 46 seats. The Social Democrats, led by outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin, came in third with 43 elected members in the 200-seat parliament. Also read: Millionaire fined a record $130,000 for speeding in Finland, where penalties are based on income In order to secure a majority, Orpo included the Swedish People's Party, which holds nine seats, and the Christian Democrats with five seats, bringing the total support for the government to 108 seats. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Right-wing coalition forms government in Finland following 11 weeks of negotiations

<p>A Finnish millionaire was slapped with a $130,000 fine—apparently the world’s highest ever—for driving 30 km/h (18.6mph) over the speed limit in the country, where fines are issued in proportion to income.</p>

<p>One of Finland's richest men, Anders Wiklof (76), was caught going 82 kilometres per hour (km/h) in a 50 km/h zone along a road on the Aland islands, an autonomous archipelago in the Baltic Sea that is part of Finland.</p>

<p>The police stopped and fined him on Saturday. Moreover, he had his driver’s licence suspended for 10 days, the Nya Aaland newspaper reported.</p>

<p>“I really regret the matter,” Wiklöf was quoted as saying. “I had just started slowing down, but I guess that didn’t happen fast enough. It’s how it goes.”</p>

<p>The businessman, who is the chairman and founder of a $10 million holding company, said the speed limit “suddenly” turned from 70km/h to 50 when he was flashed at 82km/h.</p>

<p>“I slowed down, you shouldn't panic break,” Wiklof said. “But then the blue lights came after me.”</p>

<h2><strong>The more you earn, the more you pay</strong></h2>

<p>In Finland, traffic violation fines are based on a driver's daily disposable income, generally considered to be half of their daily net salary. The more a driver is over the limit, the greater the number of day fines they receive. This practice is common in the Nordic region.</p>

<p>The fines for violating traffic rules are also based on the severity of the offence, apart from the offender’s income, which police can check instantly by connecting via their smartphones to a central taxpayer database.</p>

<p>In this case, the multi-millionaire was required to pay a fine equal to 14 days of income.</p>

<h2><strong>Gravitas: Bangladesh performs better than Pakistan in most matrix</strong></h2>

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<p>The Finnish system of imposing sliding-scale penalties encompasses a range of offences including shoplifting and breaking securities and financial trading laws. It works on ‘the more you earn, the more you pay’ principle since taxation is also progressive in that country.</p>

<h2><strong>Caught for over-speeding before</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, this is not the first time that Wiklof was fined for over-speeding. In 2013, he had to cough up £80,000 after he was caught doing 47mph in a 30mph zone on the Aland Islands and in 2018 he faced a £54,900 bill.</p>

<p>Following his latest hefty fine, Wiklof said 'there should perhaps be a cap on the fine' handed to Finnish drivers for speeding. But the businessman said he hoped the money would go towards healthcare and care for the elderly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Finnish millionaire was slapped with a $130,000 fine—apparently the world’s highest ever—for driving 30 km/h (18.6mph) over the speed limit in the country, where fines are issued in proportion to income.

A Finnish millionaire was slapped with a $130,000 fine—apparently the world’s highest ever—for driving 30 km/h (18.6mph) over the speed limit in the country, where fines are issued in proportion to income. One of Finland's richest men, Anders Wiklof (76), was caught going 82 kilometres per hour (km/h) in a 50 km/h zone along a road on the Aland islands, an autonomous archipelago in the Baltic Sea that is part of Finland. The police stopped and fined him on Saturday. Moreover, he had his driver’s licence suspended for 10 days, the Nya Aaland newspaper reported. “I really regret the matter,” Wiklöf was quoted as saying. “I had just started slowing down, but I guess that didn’t happen fast enough. It’s how it goes.” The businessman, who is the chairman and founder of a $10 million holding company, said the speed limit “suddenly” turned from 70km/h to 50 when he was flashed at 82km/h. “I slowed down, you shouldn't panic break,” Wiklof said. “But then the blue lights came after me.” The more you earn, the more you pay In Finland, traffic violation fines are based on a driver's daily disposable income, generally considered to be half of their daily net salary. The more a driver is over the limit, the greater the number of day fines they receive. This practice is common in the Nordic region. The fines for violating traffic rules are also based on the severity of the offence, apart from the offender’s income, which police can check instantly by connecting via their smartphones to a central taxpayer database. In this case, the multi-millionaire was required to pay a fine equal to 14 days of income. Gravitas: Bangladesh performs better than Pakistan in most matrix The Finnish system of imposing sliding-scale penalties encompasses a range of offences including shoplifting and breaking securities and financial trading laws. It works on ‘the more you earn, the more you pay’ principle since taxation is also progressive in that country. Caught for over-speeding before Notably, this is not the first time that Wiklof was fined for over-speeding. In 2013, he had to cough up £80,000 after he was caught doing 47mph in a 30mph zone on the Aland Islands and in 2018 he faced a £54,900 bill. Following his latest hefty fine, Wiklof said 'there should perhaps be a cap on the fine' handed to Finnish drivers for speeding. But the businessman said he hoped the money would go towards healthcare and care for the elderly. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Millionaire fined a record $130,000 for speeding in Finland, where penalties are based on income

Sweden has not lost all hope as far as its NATO membership is considered it aspires to be a part of North Atlantic Treaty Organization or the NATO by the time the block holds its Summit in Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius in July this is in line with statements coming from senior officials from Washington.

Sweden, US voice hope for NATO enlargement

<p>Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin announced on Wednesday (May 10) that she and her husband have filed for divorce. After a setback in the recent general election, Marin had said that she would step down as Social Democratic Party (SDP) leader in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Instagram stories, Marin and her husband of three years Markus Raikkonen, wrote: "We have jointly filed for divorce. We are grateful for the 19 years together and our beloved daughter. We will remain best friends, close to each other and loving parents."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will continue to spend time together as a family and with each other. We hope that you respect our privacy. We will not comment further on the matter," the post added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marin and Raikkonen have a five-year-old daughter and were married in 2020 — a period when she was in office dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Until recently, they worked at a venture capital firm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 37-year-old became the world's youngest prime minister when she took office in 2019. She is often considered by fans around the globe as a millennial role model for progressive new leaders. In the recent election, Marin conceded defeat as right-wing opposition National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo claimed victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marin hailed Social Democratic Party (SDP) improvement in both her party's vote share and its projected number of MPs as she addressed supporters and said that "it's a really good achievement, even though I didn't finish first today".&nbsp;</p>

<p>From her role in Finland becoming a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member to outstanding leadership qualities during the coronavirus pandemic, she emerged as Finland's most popular prime minister in decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there were some downfalls. She faced criticism from a certain section of society and opposition when last year some of her personal videos were leaked on social media platforms, in which she was seen partying with a group of Finnish celebrities. She even had to take a drug test to clear suspicions of wrongdoing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin announced on Wednesday (May 10) that she and her husband have filed for divorce. After a setback in the recent general election, Marin had said that she would step down as Social Democratic Party (SDP) leader in September.

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin announced on Wednesday (May 10) that she and her husband have filed for divorce. After a setback in the recent general election, Marin had said that she would step down as Social Democratic Party (SDP) leader in September. In Instagram stories, Marin and her husband of three years Markus Raikkonen, wrote: "We have jointly filed for divorce. We are grateful for the 19 years together and our beloved daughter. We will remain best friends, close to each other and loving parents." "We will continue to spend time together as a family and with each other. We hope that you respect our privacy. We will not comment further on the matter," the post added. Marin and Raikkonen have a five-year-old daughter and were married in 2020 — a period when she was in office dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Until recently, they worked at a venture capital firm. The 37-year-old became the world's youngest prime minister when she took office in 2019. She is often considered by fans around the globe as a millennial role model for progressive new leaders. In the recent election, Marin conceded defeat as right-wing opposition National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo claimed victory. Marin hailed Social Democratic Party (SDP) improvement in both her party's vote share and its projected number of MPs as she addressed supporters and said that "it's a really good achievement, even though I didn't finish first today". From her role in Finland becoming a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member to outstanding leadership qualities during the coronavirus pandemic, she emerged as Finland's most popular prime minister in decades. However, there were some downfalls. She faced criticism from a certain section of society and opposition when last year some of her personal videos were leaked on social media platforms, in which she was seen partying with a group of Finnish celebrities. She even had to take a drug test to clear suspicions of wrongdoing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland's outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin files for divorce

<p>Around 27 people, most of them children, were injured in Finland on Thursday (May 11) when a temporary footbridge by a construction site collapsed and they fell several metres onto a road.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Western Uusimaa rescue department in Espoo, near the capital Helsinki, said in a statement: "Approximately 27 youths, mostly minors, have been injured, to varying degrees."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Helsinki Hospital Authority said in a statement that many of the injured were part of a group of schoolchildren, and the injuries were not life-threatening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finland-based Helsingin Sanomat, quoting a student, reported that the children were part of a group of eighth-grade students returning from a field trip. The student, who spoke to the Finnish daily, had participated in the trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency Reuters reported, citing local police, that the temporary bridge had been built from plywood while construction was ongoing in the area.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇫🇮 Finland. Espoo<br />
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In Espoo Tapiola, there was an accident with a collapsed pedestrian bridge.<br />
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The majority of patients with injuries are associated with fractures of the limbs. 27 victims, most of them minors. <a href="https://t.co/B2lZLyNXBy">pic.twitter.com/B2lZLyNXBy</a></p>
— marina alikantes (@Marianna9110) <a href="https://twitter.com/Marianna9110/status/1656603371799805952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to a report by the news agency AFP, the accident happened around 9:20 am (0620 GMT) when wooden planks are believed to have given way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Twitter: "Shocking news from Espoo. Our strength to those injured in the accident and their loved ones. You are in our thoughts."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the images and videos shared from the accident site, rescue workers could be seen treating multiple people laying injured on the road.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em>&nbsp;</p>

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Around 27 people, most of them children, were injured in Finland on Thursday (May 11) when a temporary footbridge by a construction site collapsed and they fell several metres onto a road.

Around 27 people, most of them children, were injured in Finland on Thursday (May 11) when a temporary footbridge by a construction site collapsed and they fell several metres onto a road. The Western Uusimaa rescue department in Espoo, near the capital Helsinki, said in a statement: "Approximately 27 youths, mostly minors, have been injured, to varying degrees." The Helsinki Hospital Authority said in a statement that many of the injured were part of a group of schoolchildren, and the injuries were not life-threatening. Finland-based Helsingin Sanomat, quoting a student, reported that the children were part of a group of eighth-grade students returning from a field trip. The student, who spoke to the Finnish daily, had participated in the trip. News agency Reuters reported, citing local police, that the temporary bridge had been built from plywood while construction was ongoing in the area. 🇫🇮 Finland. Espoo In Espoo Tapiola, there was an accident with a collapsed pedestrian bridge. The majority of patients with injuries are associated with fractures of the limbs. 27 victims, most of them minors. pic.twitter.com/B2lZLyNXBy — marina alikantes (@Marianna9110) May 11, 2023 × According to a report by the news agency AFP, the accident happened around 9:20 am (0620 GMT) when wooden planks are believed to have given way. Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Twitter: "Shocking news from Espoo. Our strength to those injured in the accident and their loved ones. You are in our thoughts." In the images and videos shared from the accident site, rescue workers could be seen treating multiple people laying injured on the road. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland: Around 27, mostly children, injured in bridge collapse

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidevCuArhiZsm2" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-survives-assassination-attempt-as-ukrainian-drones-attack-kremlin-588542">did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin </a></strong>after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt. "We didn't attack Putin... We fight on our territory, we are defending our villages and cities," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference with Nordic leaders in Finland's capital city Helsinki.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We fight on our territory. We are defending our villages and cities. We don't have, you know, enough weapons for this, that's why we don't use it anywhere. For us that is the deficit, we can't spend it and we didn't attack Putin. We leave it to the tribunal," Zelensky added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-arrests-ukraine-sabotage-groups-members-for-planning-assassinations-588608">Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations'</a></strong></p>

<p>Zelensky arrived in Finland earlier in the day and held talks with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto. He thanked Niinisto for the military support to Ukraine so far and said the two have agreed to speed up further deliveries.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president also participated in a summit in Helsinki which saw a gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations.</p>

<p>Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine aims to be a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while the Nordic NATO members said they would "continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership."</p>

<p>Zelensky's visit to Finland was announced only after his arrival amid tight security in the Finnish capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently,&nbsp;Finland joined NATO in response to Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Hitting back at the membership of the intergovernmental military alliance, Russia said Finland's accession to NATO was a dangerous historic mistake that would weaken security in the wider region and force Moscow to take counter-measures.</p>

<h2><strong>Medvedev calls for 'elimination' of Zelensky&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on the Kremlin, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his clique in Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal," Medvedev said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (May 3) that his country did not attack Russian President Vladimir Putin after Moscow claimed that two drones were shot down over the Kremlin and termed it an assassination attempt. "We didn't attack Putin... We fight on our territory, we are defending our villages and cities," Zelensky told reporters at a press conference with Nordic leaders in Finland's capital city Helsinki. "We fight on our territory. We are defending our villages and cities. We don't have, you know, enough weapons for this, that's why we don't use it anywhere. For us that is the deficit, we can't spend it and we didn't attack Putin. We leave it to the tribunal," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | Russia arrests Ukraine sabotage group's members for planning 'assassinations' Zelensky arrived in Finland earlier in the day and held talks with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto. He thanked Niinisto for the military support to Ukraine so far and said the two have agreed to speed up further deliveries. The Ukrainian president also participated in a summit in Helsinki which saw a gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine aims to be a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while the Nordic NATO members said they would "continue to support Ukraine on its path towards future membership." Zelensky's visit to Finland was announced only after his arrival amid tight security in the Finnish capital. Recently, Finland joined NATO in response to Russia's offensive in Ukraine. Hitting back at the membership of the intergovernmental military alliance, Russia said Finland's accession to NATO was a dangerous historic mistake that would weaken security in the wider region and force Moscow to take counter-measures. Medvedev calls for 'elimination' of Zelensky As Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on the Kremlin, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his clique in Kyiv. "After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal," Medvedev said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

We didn't attack Putin: Ukraine's Zelensky as Nordic nations pledge continued support

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Finland on Wednesday (May 3). The Finnish presidency announced that he was there to participate in a summit gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky will meet Finnish President Sauli Niinisto after attending the summit. The visit is significant amid the ongoing war as Finland recently joined The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a bloc Ukraine wants to join to counter Russia with the security of the military alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky is there to discuss "Ukraine's defence struggle", and will also hold bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Norway's Jonas Gahr Store, Denmark's Mette Frederiksen and Iceland's Katrin Jakobsdottir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finland is now one of the nations&nbsp;Zelensky visited since Russia's invasion of Ukraine apart from the United States, Belgium, Poland, France, and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>German newspaper Tagesspiegel reported on Wednesday that Zelensky is to travel to Berlin on May 13. The report mentioned that the Ukrainian leader will be received by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with military honours on May 14 before flying to Aachen later in the day to receive the 2023 Charlemagne Prize.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇫🇮President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zelensky?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zelensky</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finland</a><br />
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During the visit, Zelensky will take part in a meeting of the prime ministers of the Nordic countries with President Sauli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Niinist%C3%B6?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Niinistö</a>. The meeting will be devoted to support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> and other topical security issues. <a href="https://t.co/M5pniRDksW">pic.twitter.com/M5pniRDksW</a></p>
— KyivPost (@KyivPost) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyivPost/status/1653709904929071105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚡⚡⚡ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zelensky?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zelensky</a> met with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finnish?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finnish</a> President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Niinisto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Niinisto</a>.<br />
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🇺🇦🤝🇫🇮<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineWillWin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineWillWin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine%EF%B8%8F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine️</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ukrainecounteroffensive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ukrainecounteroffensive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukrainian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukrainian</a> <a href="https://t.co/SU1yh0jZfB">pic.twitter.com/SU1yh0jZfB</a></p>
— 🇺🇦UkraineNewsLive🇺🇦 (@UkraineNewsLive) <a href="https://twitter.com/UkraineNewsLive/status/1653709936310755328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Daria Zarivna, Ukraine's presidential communications adviser wrote on Telegram: "In order to be in NATO and support alliances to gain support, fundamental diplomatic work must be done. Ukraine is doing it today."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a period of stalled fighting, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war started raging with fighting on in several regions as Europe’s biggest armed conflict since World War II is set to enter a new phase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian defence minister said last week that a spring counteroffensive could begin as soon as April as there's no hint of a negotiated end to the 13 months of fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>On Wednesday, the EU presented a proposal to boost ammunition production in Europe to replace depleted stocks as it arms Ukraine in its war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European Commission floated draft legislation that would pour $550 million from the EU budget to increase ammunition production. The EU internal market commissioner, Thierry Breton, said that he hoped that the proposal would become law by the end of next month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Nordic countries have pledged both financial and military support to the war-torn nation. Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway have also joined in the international effort to supply heavier weapons to Ukraine by donating some of their own Leopard 2 tanks or offering financial support to acquire them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Denmark said it was sending 1.7 billion kroner ($250 million) worth of military aid, its biggest donation to date, "to support the forthcoming Ukrainian offensive."</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Finland on Wednesday (May 3). The Finnish presidency announced that he was there to participate in a summit gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Finland on Wednesday (May 3). The Finnish presidency announced that he was there to participate in a summit gathering of the leaders of the five Nordic nations. Zelensky will meet Finnish President Sauli Niinisto after attending the summit. The visit is significant amid the ongoing war as Finland recently joined The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a bloc Ukraine wants to join to counter Russia with the security of the military alliance. Zelensky is there to discuss "Ukraine's defence struggle", and will also hold bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Norway's Jonas Gahr Store, Denmark's Mette Frederiksen and Iceland's Katrin Jakobsdottir. Finland is now one of the nations Zelensky visited since Russia's invasion of Ukraine apart from the United States, Belgium, Poland, France, and the United Kingdom. German newspaper Tagesspiegel reported on Wednesday that Zelensky is to travel to Berlin on May 13. The report mentioned that the Ukrainian leader will be received by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with military honours on May 14 before flying to Aachen later in the day to receive the 2023 Charlemagne Prize. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🇫🇮President #Zelensky in #Finland During the visit, Zelensky will take part in a meeting of the prime ministers of the Nordic countries with President Sauli #Niinistö. The meeting will be devoted to support for #Ukraine and other topical security issues. pic.twitter.com/M5pniRDksW — KyivPost (@KyivPost) May 3, 2023 × ⚡⚡⚡ #Zelensky met with #Finnish President #Niinisto. 🇺🇦🤝🇫🇮#UkraineWillWin #UkraineWar #Ukraine️ #ukrainecounteroffensive #Ukrainian pic.twitter.com/SU1yh0jZfB — 🇺🇦UkraineNewsLive🇺🇦 (@UkraineNewsLive) May 3, 2023 × Daria Zarivna, Ukraine's presidential communications adviser wrote on Telegram: "In order to be in NATO and support alliances to gain support, fundamental diplomatic work must be done. Ukraine is doing it today." After a period of stalled fighting, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war started raging with fighting on in several regions as Europe’s biggest armed conflict since World War II is set to enter a new phase. The Ukrainian defence minister said last week that a spring counteroffensive could begin as soon as April as there's no hint of a negotiated end to the 13 months of fighting. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war? × On Wednesday, the EU presented a proposal to boost ammunition production in Europe to replace depleted stocks as it arms Ukraine in its war. The European Commission floated draft legislation that would pour $550 million from the EU budget to increase ammunition production. The EU internal market commissioner, Thierry Breton, said that he hoped that the proposal would become law by the end of next month. The Nordic countries have pledged both financial and military support to the war-torn nation. Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway have also joined in the international effort to supply heavier weapons to Ukraine by donating some of their own Leopard 2 tanks or offering financial support to acquire them. On Tuesday, Denmark said it was sending 1.7 billion kroner ($250 million) worth of military aid, its biggest donation to date, "to support the forthcoming Ukrainian offensive." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine's Zelensky in surprise visit to Finland for Nordic PM summit

Will Finland become a new front in the Ukraine war? US and Finland are reportedly negotiating an agreement that allows America to use Finnish military bases. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?

<p>Weeks after joining the NATO military alliance, Finland is now constructing the first section of a fence on its border with Russia, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following its NATO application, the government feared reprisal from the east and resolved to build the wall last year, mainly in case Russia attempted to flood the border with migrants.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/jack-dorseys-twitter-alternative-bluesky-makes-debut-on-android-584966">Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative Bluesky makes debut on Android</a></p>

<p>Finland wants to prevent a recurrence of what happened in Poland in the winter of 2021, when the EU accused Belarus, a close ally of Russia, of instigating a crisis by flying in migrants from the Middle East, giving them visas, and pushing them across the border.</p>

<p>By the end of 2026, the Finnish barrier, which is made of steel mesh, should enclose around 200 kilometres (125 miles) of its most important border sections.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tesla-secures-big-win-in-crash-case-court-says-autopilot-feature-did-not-fail-584976">Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail</a></p>

<p>Ismo Kurki, the project manager, stated on Friday that the barrier will feature monitoring technology even if it is not meant to thwart any invasion attempts.</p>

<p>The frontier, which spans 1,300 kilometres, has seen relatively little human activity up to this point.</p>

<p>According to the Finnish Border Guard, just 30 unlawful crossings were discovered in Finland last year, whereas 800 attempts to enter Finland were blocked by Russian border guards, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation</strong></p>

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<p>Kai Sauer, Finland's Under Secretary of State for Foreign and Security Policy, told CBS News, "We reacted to Russia, actually," Sauer told CBS News. "It was a reaction to an action by Russia, and the action was Russia's aggression on Ukraine."</p>

<p>"If you have a big neighbor who was challenging international law, the international security architecture, and breaking international law, I think the natural reaction for smaller countries is to seek protection, and to seek it in the collective defense organization — and I would emphasize the word 'defense.'"</p>

<p>"NATO is not an aggressor" Sauer added.</p>

<p>Finland and Sweden both formally requested NATO membership after the Ukraine war started. Sweden is expected to become the next new member later this year.</p>

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Weeks after joining the NATO military alliance, Finland is now constructing the first section of a fence on its border with Russia, reports said. Following its NATO application, the government feared reprisal from the east and resolved to build the wall last year, mainly in case Russia attempted to flood the border with migrants.

Weeks after joining the NATO military alliance, Finland is now constructing the first section of a fence on its border with Russia, reports said. Following its NATO application, the government feared reprisal from the east and resolved to build the wall last year, mainly in case Russia attempted to flood the border with migrants. Also Read | Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative Bluesky makes debut on Android Finland wants to prevent a recurrence of what happened in Poland in the winter of 2021, when the EU accused Belarus, a close ally of Russia, of instigating a crisis by flying in migrants from the Middle East, giving them visas, and pushing them across the border. By the end of 2026, the Finnish barrier, which is made of steel mesh, should enclose around 200 kilometres (125 miles) of its most important border sections. Also Read | Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail Ismo Kurki, the project manager, stated on Friday that the barrier will feature monitoring technology even if it is not meant to thwart any invasion attempts. The frontier, which spans 1,300 kilometres, has seen relatively little human activity up to this point. According to the Finnish Border Guard, just 30 unlawful crossings were discovered in Finland last year, whereas 800 attempts to enter Finland were blocked by Russian border guards, reported Reuters. Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation × Kai Sauer, Finland's Under Secretary of State for Foreign and Security Policy, told CBS News, "We reacted to Russia, actually," Sauer told CBS News. "It was a reaction to an action by Russia, and the action was Russia's aggression on Ukraine." "If you have a big neighbor who was challenging international law, the international security architecture, and breaking international law, I think the natural reaction for smaller countries is to seek protection, and to seek it in the collective defense organization — and I would emphasize the word 'defense.'" "NATO is not an aggressor" Sauer added. Finland and Sweden both formally requested NATO membership after the Ukraine war started. Sweden is expected to become the next new member later this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland fencing along Russian border amid security concerns after joining NATO

<p>Russian news agencies claimed on Friday (April 14) that the Finnish embassy in Moscow had received a letter containing an unknown powder and had informed the Russian authorities about it.</p>

<p>Since Finland officially joined NATO on April 4, becoming the alliance's 31st member, relations between Moscow and Helsinki have deteriorated drastically.&nbsp;Finland shares a long land border with Russia.</p>

<p>Three envelopes were delivered to the embassy on Thursday, one of which had powder inside, according to the RIA news agency.</p>

<p>"In line with the security rules of the Finnish foreign ministry, the letters in question were handed to official representative organs of Russia which will study the matter," RIA quoted the embassy as saying.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;the embassy, it also alerted Russia's foreign ministry about the incident, reported Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-court-approves-macrons-controversial-pension-reform-plan-582540">French top court approves Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reform plan</a></p>

<p>The decision of Finland to join NATO put an end to seven decades of strategic non-alignment that had started after the nation repelled a Soviet invasion attempt during World War II. In the years following the war, it decided to keep cordial ties with Moscow.</p>

<p>However, Finland sought security under NATO's collective defence agreement after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, which stipulates that an assault on one member is an attack on all members.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Finland joins NATO, dealing blow to Russia for Ukraine war</strong></p>

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<p>On April 4, Finland formally joined the NATO military alliance. Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to invade Ukraine the previous year served as the impetus for this.</p>

<p>The alliance, which promises in its charter that an attack on one of its members is an attack on all of them, has welcomed the Nordic country as its 31st member. It's an important turning point for Finland, which has long maintained its neutrality.</p>

<p>With Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accusing Stockholm of welcoming Kurdish militants and allowing them to protest on the streets, Sweden's application has so far come to a standstill. Sweden's membership has not yet been approved by Hungary.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Russian news agencies claimed on Friday (April 14) that the Finnish embassy in Moscow had received a letter containing an unknown powder and had informed the Russian authorities about it.

Russian news agencies claimed on Friday (April 14) that the Finnish embassy in Moscow had received a letter containing an unknown powder and had informed the Russian authorities about it. Since Finland officially joined NATO on April 4, becoming the alliance's 31st member, relations between Moscow and Helsinki have deteriorated drastically. Finland shares a long land border with Russia. Three envelopes were delivered to the embassy on Thursday, one of which had powder inside, according to the RIA news agency. "In line with the security rules of the Finnish foreign ministry, the letters in question were handed to official representative organs of Russia which will study the matter," RIA quoted the embassy as saying. As per the embassy, it also alerted Russia's foreign ministry about the incident, reported Reuters. ALSO READ | French top court approves Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reform plan The decision of Finland to join NATO put an end to seven decades of strategic non-alignment that had started after the nation repelled a Soviet invasion attempt during World War II. In the years following the war, it decided to keep cordial ties with Moscow. However, Finland sought security under NATO's collective defence agreement after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, which stipulates that an assault on one member is an attack on all members. ALSO WATCH | Finland joins NATO, dealing blow to Russia for Ukraine war On April 4, Finland formally joined the NATO military alliance. Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to invade Ukraine the previous year served as the impetus for this. The alliance, which promises in its charter that an attack on one of its members is an attack on all of them, has welcomed the Nordic country as its 31st member. It's an important turning point for Finland, which has long maintained its neutrality. With Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accusing Stockholm of welcoming Kurdish militants and allowing them to protest on the streets, Sweden's application has so far come to a standstill. Sweden's membership has not yet been approved by Hungary. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Finland’s embassy in Moscow receives letter containing unknown powder: Reports

Finland's accession into the NATO military alliance has officially ended 7 decades of relative peace in Europe. The dissolution of Nordic neutrality also means the dissolution of the buffer states. This means that there is no neutral territory that now separates Russia and the NATO military alliance. The arc of confrontation has suddenly doubled overnight. For over seven decades, Europe enjoyed a period of unpecedented peace & prosperity. But it did this after decades of horrific violence that Europe went through in the two world wars. But Europe it appears has not learnt any lessons. Hostile military alliances are the ingredients which spark off total wars. Mohammed Saleh gets you the story as to why with Finland joining the NATO military alliance, Europe will now witness decades of turmoil & strife.

Russia welcomes Finland's NATO membership with nuclear Iskander missiles | World at War

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