News of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Helsinki dominated Finnish papers on Wednesday, with coverage spanning details of his accommodation in Kruununhaka, extensive security measures, and the key topics set for discussion.
An Iltalehti editorial highlighted the powerful symbolism of the visit, emphasising that Zelensky's presence in Finland is not just a diplomatic gesture but a statement of shared values and a "defence of European sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression".
Zelensky's official visit to Finland comes at a pivotal moment for Ukraine. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump spoke on the phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a possible a ceasefire in the Ukraine war, which started more than three years ago.
According to Iltalehti, Zelensky's visit is a carefully calculated move, with the Ukrainian president specifically choosing Helsinki for this public appearance.
"Europe must be at the negotiating table, and all matters related to Europe's security must be decided together with Europe," Zelensky wrote on messaging platform X upon arriving in Finland.
IL suggested that Finland, which has defended its democracy against Russia since 1917, both militarily and diplomatically, serves as a model for Ukraine’s future. President Stubb has consistently advocated for Ukraine’s right to join the EU and Nato.
According to IL, when Zelensky and Stubb appear together on Wednesday, a powerful message will be sent to Trump and Putin: Finland's century-long success is a blueprint for Ukraine's future, despite the challenges ahead.
Zelenskyi last visited Finland in May 2023 to attend a meeting of Nordic Prime Ministers hosted by Finnish President Sauli Niinistö.
For a weekly roundup of the top stories from Finland, as well as an Yle Areena tip, sign up for Yle's newsletter service with your Yle ID.
Students' internship struggles
A report by Helsingin Sanomat detailed the challenges faced by higher education students in securing mandatory internship placements. This year, these opportunities are particularly scarce.
HS spoke to Miia Saarela, a business administration student at Tampere University of Applied Sciences, who is close to graduating but still needs to complete her internship and thesis.
By the beginning of March, Saarela had applied for 112 internships across Finland, mainly in HR and management. She secured about 14 interviews but didn't make the cut — she was often told that a more experienced candidate was chosen.
Saarela noted that, in addition to fewer listings, many positions are unpaid, particularly in the Tampere area. She explained that the lack of payment is often justified by financial constraints.
Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK) reports that this year's internship situation is more challenging than before, with sector-specific shortages, mainly in construction, architecture, business, and the cultural sector. The situation is especially tough for international students.
According to HS, there may be thousands of applicants for a single IT internship position.
Saarela, who is still on the lookout for an internship, despite fewer positions each day, said "It feels a bit hopeless."
Costly cuppa
Tabloid Ilta-Sanomat reports that the price of coffee is now well above the pain threshold for many Finns.
Last year, slightly more than half of the respondents in surveys by the magazine Me Naiset and tabloid Iltalehti had said that they hoped to pay no more than five euros for a coffee pack. That price is now a distant dream, IS said.
IS reported that a half-kilo package of Paulig's Presidentti coffee can cost over ten euros at its peak, with popular brands like Kulta Katriina and Juhla Mokka priced at more than eight euros a pack.
"The global market price of raw coffee is now twice what it was this time last year," said Sari Forsman-Hugg, Research Director at Pellervo Economic Research (PTT).
According to Statistics Finland, the price of coffee surged a staggering 31 percent in February compared to last year, with nearly a seven percent increase from January.
Forsman-Hugg said there is no returning to cheaper coffee prices now.
The research chief also noted that global warming and climate events are impacting coffee crops, driving up prices for Finland's favorite drink.
Finns continue to consume a record amount of coffee by global standards, averaging nine kilograms per person per year. If the rising cost of the unofficial national drink is too staggering, Forsman-Hugg suggests people should rethink their consumption habits.
The All Points North podcast recently looked into ways you can fight Finland's cost of living crisis. Listen to the episode via this embedded player, on Yle Areena, via Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Users with an Yle ID can leave comments on our news stories. You can create your Yle ID via this link. Our guidelines on commenting and moderation are explained here.
