The visit marked a significant step towards enhancing security and humanitarian cooperation between Ukraine and Finland.

This week, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo visited the Svyatoshyn district of Kyiv, which was struck by a Russian ballistic missile on April 24. As a result of the attack, 12 civilians lost their lives, and over 50 buildings were damaged.

Together with the head of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, Andriy Danik, and other authorities, Petteri Orpo examined the site of the tragedy and spoke with rescuers. That night, 300 rescuers and an equal number of police officers worked tirelessly, deploying more than 100 units of equipment. Service dogs played a crucial role in the rescue operations. Notably, a shepherd dog named Zenit helped locate a man trapped for over six hours under the rubble.

The delegation also visited a shelter in one of Kyiv's lyceums. During the visit, the parties discussed ways to strengthen the protection system for civilians in Ukrainian cities.

One of the key outcomes was the signing of an initiative to create an International Coalition of Shelters, an important step toward enhancing the safety of the civilian population during wartime.

Mr. Orpo emphasized that Finland will continue to support Ukraine in the areas of security, humanitarian aid, and reconstruction. He witnessed firsthand the consequences of Russian attacks and noted his admiration for the resilience of the Ukrainian people.

“We greatly appreciate the support of our partners. Together, we are stronger,” stressed Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

It is worth noting that on the night of May 24, Russian troops launched a massive attack on Ukraine, firing 14 ballistic missiles and 250 strike drones. The primary target was Kyiv. Air defense forces managed to intercept six missiles and eliminate 245 drones. As a result of the attack, fires broke out in several districts of the capital.