At a summit meeting in Helsinki, leaders from eight European countries issued a joint declaration addressing security concerns stemming from the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine. They described the conflict as a profound and persistent threat to Europe’s security and stability. In response, the leaders emphasized the need to strengthen ground forces, improve air defense systems, and enhance protection of critical infrastructure along the EU’s eastern flank.

The measures are intended to be implemented within the framework of the European Union and in cooperation with NATO. Attending the summit were representatives from Finland, Sweden, the three Baltic states, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria, who collectively called for these strategic security enhancements to mitigate the risks posed by Russian aggression.