-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Finland for an official visit, accompanied by First Lady Olena Zelenska. His plane landed at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport on Tuesday, March 18.
The visit includes a meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, as well as discussions with other high-ranking officials. A welcome ceremony is set to take place in the courtyard of the Presidential Palace in Helsinki, followed by bilateral talks and delegation-level negotiations.
Stubb confirmed Zelenskyy’s arrival in Finland in a statement on social media, saying, “Honoured to welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska to Finland.”
Together with the First Lady @ZelenskaUA, I am on an official visit to our friends and principled allies—Finland.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 18, 2025
Meetings will be held with President Alexander Stubb and First Lady Suzanne Innes-Stubb, Speaker Jussi Halla-aho and members of Parliament, Prime Minister Petteri… pic.twitter.com/3zRtvxn5o1
The visit’s agenda includes discussions on Finland’s support for Ukraine, military cooperation, and investment in Ukrainian defense production.
Additionally, talks will cover Ukraine’s European integration, Finland’s experience in civil protection and shelter infrastructure, as well as sanctions against Russia and coordination efforts to achieve a resolution to the war.
Zelenskyy is also scheduled to meet with Finnish Parliament Speaker Jussi Halla-aho, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, and representatives from the defense industry. A press conference on the visit is planned for Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. local time.
In the evening, Zelenskyy will attend an event at the University of Helsinki, where President Stubb is expected to deliver a speech.
Meanwhile, First Lady Olena Zelenska’s program includes discussions on expanding cooperation in Ukrainian studies, ensuring educational security, and developing school shelter infrastructure. She will also engage with business leaders, philanthropists, and representatives of Finland’s cultural sector.
Earlier, Finland announced a shift in its military aid strategy for Ukraine, launching a new support program focused on purchasing weapons from its domestic defense industry. The initiative, backed by €660 million, aims to supply Finnish-made military equipment to Ukraine, replacing previous aid drawn from national stockpiles.
