Finnish President Alexander Staab and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Storr held a telephone conversation with Vladimir Putin on their own initiative, the Finnish leader's office reported. "The discussion was open and meaningful. We are neighboring countries to Russia. The outcome of this war will directly affect our and pan-European security. Direct negotiations are necessary to end the war," Mr Staub said.

Finnish President Alexander Staab and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Storr held a telephone conversation with Vladimir Putin on their own initiative, the Finnish leader's office reported. "The discussion was open and meaningful. We are neighboring countries to Russia. The outcome of this war will directly affect our and pan-European security. Direct negotiations are necessary to end the war," Mr Staub said.