Finland’s President Alexander Stubb informed Firstpost that there is “no imminent threat” from Russia, emphasizing that the nation’s robust military, membership in NATO, and partnership with the United States guarantee its security. “Finland is a security provider, not a consumer,” he stated during an exclusive interview with Firstpost’s Managing Editor Palki Sharma in Helsinki on Monday.
Stubb rejected claims that Finland’s choice to join NATO was hasty. “Not at all — it was delayed. We should have done it 30 years ago,” he remarked, adding that the country would not have pursued membership had Russia not invaded Ukraine. “It wasn’t rushed; it was a sound decision.”
In response to warnings from European leaders that Russia might attack within a few years, Stubb commented, “Russia has imperial tendencies. Its ambitions are rooted in expansion, but Finland is not included in their plans.”
Hybrid warfare and drone threats
Stubb acknowledged that Russia is involved in certain types of hybrid warfare but advised against excessive reactions. “Yes, Russia is behind some hybrid warfare — such as sending asylum seekers to Finland and severing cables in the Baltic Sea. Our strategy is to remain cool, calm, and collected — we do not overreact,” he stated.
When questioned about Donald Trump’s previous suggestion to shoot down drones entering Finnish airspace, Stubb responded, “We have a clear protocol regarding this matter. We know precisely what actions to take. I don’t believe we will need to shoot them down.”
Ending the war in Ukraine
Regarding the broader issue of concluding the war in Ukraine, Stubb remarked, “Putin only comprehends power. There must be increased pressure on Russia.” He welcomed Trump’s decision to impose sanctions on Russian oil and urged Europe to utilize frozen Russian assets to assist Ukraine. “We should persist with military support for Ukraine. The Russian advance is very slow — we are currently in a stalemate,” he concluded.
