Until Now, We Had Positive Relations During Gorbachev and Yeltsin Periods, Says Finland's Foreign Minister on Russia

Finland considers Russia an "important neighbor," but relations have become complicated due to the events in Ukraine, stated Finland's Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto, as reported by RT.

"Russia is an important neighbor for Finland. Until now, during the times of Gorbachev and Yeltsin, we had positive relations," Haavisto said in an interview with Japanese NHK television.

According to him, relations with Moscow are becoming difficult due to the Russian military operation in Ukraine and challenges related to European security structures.

Earlier, Finnish President Sauli Niinistö and Prime Minister Sanna Marin had announced their support for NATO membership.