**Finland to Lead International Coalition for Ukraine’s Civil Protection**
On March 19, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky finalized a civil protection coalition. The goal of the coalition is to help protect Ukrainian civilians from Russian aerial attacks.
Finland will work with other countries to build air raid shelters in Ukraine. Ministers from Finland and Ukraine signed an agreement on March 19, but more details about the coalition are expected to be released soon.
The announcement comes after President Zelensky visited Finland on a state visit on March 18. He said that Finland’s leadership in guiding the coalition is “extremely important” because of uncertainty around Russia‘s commitment to a partial ceasefire.
Finland has previously announced that it would provide $691 million in military aid for Ukraine. President Stubb said that Finland will continue to provide strong assistance to Ukraine.
**Other News**
* Russian forces launched an attack on Kropyvnytskyi, injuring eight people, including a child.
* A new shipment of Western F-16 fighter jets has arrived in Ukraine.
* The European Union plans to supply Ukraine with at least 2 million shells annually.
* President Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone call on March 19, during which they discussed potential air defense systems for Ukraine.
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