The Ukraine situation and violent extremism discussed in the meeting of the President of the Republic and the Cabinet Committee on Foreign and Security Policy on 27 February 2015

Government Communications Department
Press release 104/2015
27.2.2015

The President of the Republic and the Cabinet Committee on Foreign and Security Policy discussed the current situation with respect to Ukraine on Friday, 27 February 2015.

The agreement reached in Minsk on 12 February is an important attempt to resolve the conflict. Finland calls for the parties involved in the conflict to comply with their commitments. Russia should exert its influence on separatist leaders to ensure that the cease-fire is adhered to and that the withdrawal of heavy weapons can be implemented as required by the Minsk agreement. OSCE observers should be guaranteed access to all areas, in accordance with the Minsk agreement. Finland supports the strengthening of OSCE’s presence in Ukraine.

Kyiv commemorated the anniversary of the events in Maidan on 22 February. Finland expresses its sympathy and condolences to the relatives of those who died in the conflict in Ukraine.

The President of the Republic and the Cabinet Committee on Foreign and Security Policy also discussed violent extremism as well as measures to prevent and combat it. The Committee expressed its concern about the influence of internet-based and other material that is violent and aimed at radicalising individuals to terrorism. 

In addition, the Committee was informed of and discussed the report of the working group on developing legislation on intelligence. The report, which was submitted in January 2015, assessed the need to develop legislation on intelligence activities conducted by security authorities. 

Inquiries: Terhi Hakala, Director General, tel. +358 295 351 300, Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Ukraine situation); Päivi Nerg, Permanent Secretary, tel. +358 295 488 203, Ministry of the Interior (violent extremism); Hanna Nordström, Director of Legal Affairs, tel. +358 295 140 600, Ministry of Defence (report)