The new Minister of Defense of Finland, Mikko Savola, took the oath. He will hold this post until March, until the return of the former head of the defense department Antti Kaikkonen.. The new head of the Ministry of Defense noted that Finland's support for Ukraine will not change. It is reported by Yle.

The change of ministers took place at noon during a reception presided over by President Sauli Niinostio. In his speech after taking the oath, Savola explained that Finland will not change its policy and will continue to support Ukraine. The 12th aid package is currently being prepared, decisions on which are expected in the next few weeks..

As the minister emphasized, preparation for NATO membership is one of the priorities of his short term as minister.

" For my part, I intend to contribute to this. Preparations for NATO membership are in full swing,"

[see_also ids\u003d"

Recall that earlier Antti Kaikkonen expressed hope that the country will join the North Atlantic Alliance in July 2023, when the NATO summit will be held in Vilnius..