Finnish general predicts end of Ukraine war too far

The commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, Gen Timo Kivinen, has said that he does not see an end to the war in Ukraine yet and called for continued support for Kyiv in the fight against Russia.

He said this at the opening ceremony of the annual national defence courses, Iltalehti reports.

According to Kivinen, the end of the war, which began more than a year ago, is not yet in sight.

"The prolonged war and the growing losses of both sides are factors of uncertainty that also affect its continuation," he said.

The general noted that the Ukrainian people's will to defend their country and the tolerance of society to crises, as well as the political, economic and military support of the Western community, have become key factors in Ukraine's defensive struggle.

"Ukraine was supported in a way that surprised Russia," Kivinen said.

He also said that Ukraine's support should be continued.

"We are the so-called front line, which must be taken into account when assessing risks and opportunities," Kivinen stressed, speaking about Finland's military assistance to Ukraine.