As Putin rearms, Nato considers anti-tank barriers along Russian border to deter further movement

Finland plans border defences

Finland is looking to Ukraine’s experience in defending itself as it works to fortify its 1,340km border with Russia. General Pasi Välimäki told Bloomberg that conditions in Finland are more challenging.

Välimäki said Russia had begun rebuilding its military and weapons stockpiles. He cited T-90 tanks and BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles delivered to storage facilities. Finland cannot prevent Moscow from rearming, he said. The country aims to establish a barrier to prevent Russian forces moving further towards Finland or the alliance.

Leaders discuss diplomacy

Stoere said they spoke with Putin for about 90 minutes. The call came ahead of planned peace discussions between Russian, Ukrainian and US officials in Abu Dhabi next month; the discussions will be their first since February.

Ukraine welcomes initiative

Stubb and Stoere also spoke with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha said Kyiv had coordinated the call and called it “the right approach.” Sybiha welcomed support for Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts and peace process. He also said he hoped a local ceasefire around the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky could help lead to further steps. Stoere said the two leaders had stressed de-escalation and voiced strong support for Ukraine.