In a recent statement from Brussels, Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized that allies should refrain from exerting undue pressure on each other or advocating for the annexation of a partner nation’s territory. Open image Viewer Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) addressed reporters following an informal EU leaders’ meeting in Brussels on Thursday. Image: Nicolas Tucat / AFP The ongoing diplomatic friction stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to acquire Greenland has cast a shadow over relations between the EU and the United States, as noted by Prime Minister Orpo. In a briefing after his discussions with…
Author: Finland Review
Vesa Viitakoski Joins Lappeenranta’s SaiPa as Assistant Coach In an exciting development for local ice hockey enthusiasts, former professional player Vesa Viitakoski, 54, has been appointed as an assistant coach for SaiPa’s upcoming 2026–2027 season. Hailing from Lappeenranta, Viitakoski began his illustrious playing career at SaiPa and has maintained strong ties to the club. Current head coach Raimo Helminen fondly remembers Viitakoski as a long-time companion from their days at Ilves, acknowledging the bond they forged on and off the ice. Viitakoski’s playing record is nothing short of impressive. He has skated in 803 regular season games in the Finnish…
The latest developments regarding U.S. President Donald Trump and his controversial interest in Greenland have captured the attention of Finnish media this Thursday morning. Helsingin Sanomat reports that Trump has rescinded his earlier threat to impose punitive tariffs on Finland and seven other nations that obstruct his ambitions for a U.S. acquisition of Greenland. This surprising reversal came after Trump’s discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday. Following their meeting, the President declared that an “understanding had been reached.” While specifics about this ‘understanding’ remain murky, HS cites a CNN source…
Throughout 2026, the Finland, Naturally team is embracing the Sleep Outdoors for a Night challenge, inviting members to step out of their comfort zones and into the great outdoors. Kicking off the year was Maarit, who braved a chilly January night along the banks of the Ounasjoki River in Rovaniemi, Lapland. As a service provider and customer advisor for Finland, Naturally, Maarit is often seen at the Finnish Nature Center Haltia in Nuuksio National Park, where she assists visitors and guides school groups. For her overnight adventure, she chose a spot that held deep personal significance: the campsite was set…
HIFK Welcomes Back Goalkeeper Hugo Alnefelt After Injury In a significant boost for Helsinki IFK, the SM league club announced the return of goalkeeper Hugo Alnefelt to the roster. The 24-year-old Swede is set to reclaim his spot in goal after a challenging period on the sidelines. Alnefelt suffered a concussion during a home match against Ilves on January 9. In a harrowing moment, he was struck in the head by Ilves forward Teemu Engberg, leading to a fall that left him motionless on the ice. Medical staff quickly intervened, and he was taken off the rink on a stretcher.…
The crisis helpline in Finland is stepping up to provide essential support, offering assistance in English for those in need. Mieli Mental Health Finland reports that its Crisis Helpline experienced an unprecedented surge in calls last year. In 2025, volunteers answered over 110,000 inquiries, marking an increase of around 10,000 from the previous year. Overall, the helpline received nearly 320,000 calls, and the response rate improved significantly, rising to 35 compared to 26 in 2024. For those seeking help, the Crisis Helpline can be reached at 09 2525 0116. It operates on Mondays from 4 PM to 8 PM, and…
While Haukkalampi stands as the most frequented entrance to Nuuksio National Park, it still offers a chance for tranquility—provided you choose your timing wisely. If you find yourself with an opportunity to visit Nuuksio on a winter weekday, particularly outside the holiday rush, do seize it. Recently, I ventured into this serene winter landscape with my colleagues from the Finnish Nature Center Haltia and my spouse, Joel. Our destination was the picturesque areas of Haukanholma and Mustalampi. The hike provided a perfect escape from everyday life, showcasing all the enchanting aspects of wintery Nuuksio: the soothing sounds of a nearby…
Jari Saario’s Triumphant Return to Finland Date: [Insert Date] In an inspiring turn of events, extreme rower Jari Saario, 53, is set to return to Finland from South Africa this Tuesday. The story of his homecoming unfolds with great anticipation, and Iltalehti will be there to capture each moment. You can catch the live coverage from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in the video linked above. Saario’s ambitious rowing expedition, which aimed to traverse the challenging waters from Cape Horn to Cape Town, faced an unexpected setback about a week and a half ago. A mechanical failure left him in peril at sea,…
Finland’s Last Landlines: A Historic Shift By this summer, Finland will officially retire its last remaining landlines, marking the end of an era in telecommunications that has lasted more than 200 years. The telecommunications company Elisa will shut down its legacy network on June 30, as reported by Iltalehti. This significant transition will impact both households and businesses. In late April, those affected will receive letters informing them of the shutdown and outlining available replacement services. The decline of landline usage began in earnest in the early 2000s, as mobile phones rapidly gained prominence. Even so, many may still fondly…
The corporate behemoths have opted not to comment in advance of their impending financial results, as reported by Yle. In a recent exchange, five of Finland’s six largest publicly traded companies responded to inquiries regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest threats concerning tariffs. Among the notable Finnish firms weighing in were Kone, Wärtsilä, UPM-Kymmene, and Valmet—each of whom considers the United States a vital export destination. However, all those contacted refrained from speculation. Each company declined to offer comments, adhering to the “quiet period” convention that restricts listed companies from discussing financial performance, market conditions, or future prospects during the…