Finland supports energy sector in Ukraine

On 24 November, Finland sent much needed help for the energy sector in Ukraine. The delivery package comprised components of the electricity grid, such as current transformers, circuit breakers and relays. Earlier this autumn, 28 current transformers were delivered to Ukraine.

"There is a true need for assistance to the energy sector, because Russia’s attacks have targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. A large number of Finnish companies, too, have responded to the request to help Ukraine", says Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä. 

Finland will send more assistance in aid of the energy sector towards the end of this year and the beginning of next year. Deliveries consisting of current transformers, components of the electrical grid, large generators and heating equipment are being prepared.

"The situation in Ukraine is extremely serious for the civilian population and the need for assistance is growing. As winter approaches, millions of people are without electricity, heating and water. Finland listens to Ukraine’s requests and provides assistance accordingly. I sincerely hope that the willingness of Finns to help will remain strong, says Minister of the Interior Krista Mikkonen.

Assistance for the energy sector is provided through the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism. The Ministry of the Interior coordinates the civilian assistance provided by the Finnish Government to Ukraine.

Finland has provided a wide range of material assistance to Ukraine since February

Since the war started in February, Finland has sent 50 truckloads of civilian material assistance to Ukraine and four to Moldova. Six fire engines and 13 ambulances have also been sent to Ukraine. The monetary value of the civilian material assistance is over EUR four million. Several sets of deliveries with a combined value of several million euros are currently being prepared.

In addition, Finland has sent experts to Poland, Moldova, Slovakia and the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) to help coordinate the assistance delivered through the EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism. The ERCC coordinates the assistance to Ukraine and the neighbouring areas through the Civil Protection Mechanism.  

Need for assistance will continue in Ukraine for a long time

The aid operation is exceptional and the need for assistance is expected to continue for a long time. As a result of intensified attacks in recent weeks, there is a massive need for supplies for the energy sector, in particular. The entire society, from citizens to the authorities maintaining the functions of society, will continue to need various kinds of material assistance. Ukraine currently needs medicines, first aid supplies, shelters, water purification tablets, mine clearance equipment, CBRN protective and counter-measure materials, back-up generators and fuels. The needs keep changing, however.  

The Ministry of the Interior is coordinating donations by businesses, organisations and public administration. For private individuals, the most effective way to help is by donating money to aid organisations. The donated items and supplies are delivered to those in need of assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and in cooperation with the responsible authorities in Ukraine. The European Commission coordinates the assistance provided through the Civil Protection Mechanism. This will ensure that donations can be monitored and that they reach their destination.

Inquiries:

Pekka Tiainen, Senior Specialist, tel. +358 295 323 488 227, pekka.tiainen@govsec.fi

Mikko Jalo, Special Adviser to the Minister of the Interior, tel. +358 50 304 8522, mikko.jalo@gov.fi (requests for interviews with the Minister)

Sonja Hällfors, Special Adviser to the Minister of Economic Affairs, tel. +358 295 047 380, sonja.hallfors@gov.fi