ISTANBUL

The Finnish prime minister called on the US to implement tougher sanctions against Russia as the EU is preparing a new package.

"Europe is preparing a new sanctions package for the next summit. The United States — meaning (President Donald) Trump, in practice — already has a very tough sanctions package in place. I hope the US will now come to the conclusion that Russia is playing for time, and now is the time to implement those sanctions," Petteri Orpo said in an interview with Yle Radio Suomi.

Orpo reiterated the need to increase sanctions on Russia to achieve a ceasefire and a peace process.

"At the moment, I don't believe there's anything else to be done than for the West, the United States and Europe together with like-minded nations, to increase pressure on Russia — to support Ukraine's army in repelling Russia's continued attacks," he said.

Having visited Kyiv on Wednesday, Orpo described the "suffering" in Ukraine as "shocking," and reaffirmed their plan to support the continuation of everyday life during wartime.

When asked about increasing Finland's defense spending, he said: "If our defence capability is not sufficient in this situation, then we are jeopardising the safety of our entire nation."