An issue of “bureaucratic obstacles” that allegedly prevent unimpeded delivery of humanitarian supplies of the Finnish Red Cross to Ukraine has been raised recently in several publications by the leading Finnish mass media. Wherein, representatives of Russian-speaking editions of some Finnish and Russian media demonstrate particular interest to blow up this issue in the media.

Responding to these publications the Embassy of Ukraine in Finland implemented a number of effective steps aimed at obtaining reliable information both from sender of the aid – the Finnish Red Cross, as well as from its Ukrainian partner – the National Committee of the Red Cross in Ukraine.

The comprehensive information about the relevant decisions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine aimed at maximum simplification of procedure for obtaining permits for deliveries of humanitarian aid for the needs of the victims of Russia`s military aggression against Ukraine was provided to the representatives of the Finnish Red Cross.

The results of our contacts with the Finnish and Ukrainian charitable organizations reconfirm absence of any urgent problems during processing of requests for delivery of humanitarian cargoes by the authorized state bodies of Ukraine, as well as their readiness for further fruitful cooperation.

The above mentioned demonstrates groundless accusations of Ukrainian authorities in bureaucratic obstacles to the process of delivery of humanitarian aid.

Ukrainian side is grateful to the Government of Finland, the Finnish non-governmental charitable organizations for their practical assistance to ensure the immediate humanitarian needs of the civilian population of Ukraine, which for the sake of their own safety forced to leave permanent places of residence in the east of our country.

The Embassy of Ukraine in Finland is always ready to assist in the soonest possible settlement of any complications and misunderstandings in the course of organization by the Finnish charitable organizations of the humanitarian supplies shipments for the needs of civilian population of Ukraine.