European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo in Lappeenranta, Finland, on April 19, 2024. The meeting focused on security cooperation and Europe's response to current geopolitical challenges, particularly the Russian threat along Finland's eastern border. Von der Leyen praised Finland's pragmatic and robust approach to national security, including its ability to adapt to hybrid warfare tactics. She urged the EU to emulate Finland's fortitude and security mindset to effectively counter evolving threats. The meeting symbolized strong EU-Finland coordination on security matters, with an emphasis on preparedness against pressure from Russia and enhancing cooperation within European institutions. Von der Leyen's remarks called for a principled and firm security stance, citing Finland as a role model for the broader European community.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo in Lappeenranta, Finland, on April 19, 2024. The meeting focused on security cooperation and Europe's response to current geopolitical challenges, particularly the Russian threat along Finland's eastern border. Von der Leyen praised Finland's pragmatic and robust approach to national security, including its ability to adapt to hybrid warfare tactics. She urged the EU to emulate Finland's fortitude and security mindset to effectively counter evolving threats. The meeting symbolized strong EU-Finland coordination on security matters, with an emphasis on preparedness against pressure from Russia and enhancing cooperation within European institutions. Von der Leyen's remarks called for a principled and firm security stance, citing Finland as a role model for the broader European community.