Risto Heikki Ryti was a Finnish politician who served as the fifth president of Finland from 1940 to 1944. Ryti started his career as a politician in the field of economics and as a political background figure during the interwar period. He made a wide range of international contacts in the world of banking and within the framework of the League of Nations. Ryti served as prime minister during the Winter War and the Interim Peace, and as president during the Continuation War.
Risto Ryti
Ryti's home in Helsinki 1918-35
Plaque on the above building
Having given the solemn oath on 19 December 1940, Ryti leaves the parliament alone. His predecessor, Kallio, suffered a heart attack and died the same day.
The president of the Republic of Finland is the head of state of Finland. The incumbent president is Alexander Stubb, since 1 March 2024. He was elected president for the first time in 2024.
President of Finland
Newly sworn President Martti Ahtisaari (2nd left) inspects the company of honor with outgoing President Koivisto (c.), followed by others, c. 1994
New President Sauli Niinistö (rt.) and outgoing President Halonen (2nd rt.) accompanied by military leaders, inspect the company of honor, c. 2012
Mauno Koivisto with President Ronald Reagan during a trip to Finland
