Biden says US, Finland in lockstep on Russia's war on Ukraine

WASHINGTON

The US and Finland are in lockstep on agreeing that Russia's war on Ukraine has far-reaching consequences for Europe and beyond, President Joe Biden said on Friday.

Addressing reporters at the White House as he hosted Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, Biden said Washington and Helsinki agree Russia's war is "an attack on the security of Europe, and global peace and stability," and have been coordinating a "united transatlantic response to hold Russia accountable" for its "unjustified aggression."

"Finland is a critical partner of the United States, a strong defense partner as well, a partner to NATO especially in the strength and security of the Baltic Sea area," the US president said in the Oval Office. "We’re committed to helping Ukraine defend itself and support of the humanitarian need of the Ukrainian people."

Niinisto thanked Biden for "the leadership you have showed" during what he described as "very difficult times."

The presidential sit-down comes as speculation continues to mount over whether Finland will launch a bid for NATO membership, but neither Biden nor Niinisto addressed the matter directly.

Ukraine had publicly announced its desire to join the transatlantic alliance prior to Russia's invasion last month.

Russia began its war on Feb. 24. It has been met with outrage from the international community, with the EU, UK, and US implementing a range of economic sanctions on Russia. President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov are among those who have been blacklisted.