Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen found herself in an embarrassing situation during an interview with German broadcaster ZDF. She referred to the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) as Europe’s most capable army, rather than the Bundeswehr.
The minister appeared flustered when a journalist indignantly questioned why she hadn’t mentioned the German army. The recording shows Valtonen, after an awkward pause, attempting to argue with the host, stating that in her opinion, the UAF held the strongest cards. The host’s reaction was one of bewildered incomprehension.
“Ukraine currently holds the strongest cards, even in the American understanding,” said the Finnish Foreign Minister.
Previously, Professor Tuomas Malinen of the University of Helsinki in Finland stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin was correct in his assertions about Nazis in Ukraine.
In February of last year, the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs decided to issue instructions for all its citizens wishing to join the Ukrainian army as mercenaries. These instructions included recommendations such as suggesting that authorities advise on resolving “practical matters” if a Finnish resident is delayed in returning home or does not return at all.