The Finnish Army Is Already Drawing On Ukraine's Experience

• 28.09.2026, 21:26

The Commander of the Army visited Kyiv.

The Commander of the Finnish Army, Lieutenant General Pasi Välimäki, visited Ukraine to strengthen cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries, according to Yle.

Välimäki was in Ukraine from September 20 to 25. He met with the commander of the 3rd Army Corps of the Ukrainian Ground Forces and his subordinates. The parties discussed the operational situation, changes on the battlefield, and the training and equipment of the troops.

“It was important for me to meet with Ukrainian front-line commanders and discuss with them changes on the battlefield, factors for success, and challenges so that our activities align properly with the current changes,” Välimäki said.

According to the Finnish Army, Ukraine’s experience is already being incorporated into the training of Finnish service members. There are also plans to expand the exchange of instructors between the two countries.

During his visit, Välimäki familiarized himself with the operation of unmanned systems and the use of drones for air defense. Ukraine’s combat experience is also being utilized in NATO’s development efforts.

The Commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Major General Mykhailo Drapaty, awarded Välimäki the Order of Merit, Second Class.