Kathmandu— Finland will not provide Ukraine with additional air defense missiles, according to Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen, who stated that jeopardizing Finland’s own combat readiness would be too risky given current tensions with Russia. The decision comes as Ukraine intensifies its appeals for more interceptors, particularly the US-made Patriot system, amid ongoing Russian strikes on infrastructure and military facilities. Hakkanen indicated a challenging winter ahead for both NATO and Ukraine, anticipating renewed Russian attacks targeting Ukrainian energy resources. Finland has previously provided aid packages to Ukraine, including air defense assets, but maintains that it has already contributed as much as possible without compromising its own security.

Ukraine’s Air Defense Needs

Ukraine has been increasingly vocal about its critical need for more air defense missiles, especially Patriot interceptors. President Vladimir Zelensky recently acknowledged the difficulty Ukraine faces in intercepting Russian ballistic missiles due to a shortage of interceptors for the Patriot system. This shortfall places significant strain on Ukraine's ability to defend against ongoing attacks from Russia.

Finland’s Position and Limitations

Defense Minister Hakkanen emphasized that Finland does not possess the American-made Patriot system, and therefore the responsibility for addressing Ukraine’s shortage lies primarily with US production capacity and decisions made by European nations that do own Patriots. While Finland has “a certain level of capability in certain anti-aircraft missiles,” Hakkanen declined to provide further details, citing operational security. He firmly stated that as a frontline state bordering Russia, Finland cannot risk its own air defense readiness.

Broader NATO Capacity Concerns

Finland is not alone in its limited capacity to supply Ukraine with additional Patriot systems. Several other NATO members possessing Patriots, including Romania, the Netherlands, and Poland, have signaled that they are unable to provide further assistance. Reports indicate that former US President Donald Trump also rejected a request from Zelensky for hundreds more interceptors, citing depleted US stocks needed elsewhere. Hakkanen suggested that resolving the conflict in Iran would be a significant factor in alleviating missile stockpile issues.

Russian Response and Ongoing Conflict

Moscow has consistently condemned weapons deliveries to Ukraine, arguing they prolong the conflict without altering its ultimate outcome. Russia views such shipments as evidence of “direct participation” in the hostilities. Hakkanen predicted that Moscow will once again target Ukrainian energy infrastructure with new missile and drone strikes during the upcoming winter.

Finland continues to support Ukraine through aid packages while prioritizing its own national security, a position shared by several other NATO allies facing limitations in their ability to provide further air defense assistance.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.