In Prague Stubb urged leaders to shift perspective and consider what Ukraine contributes to European security. His remark suggested deeper long term cooperation.

We should not focus on what Europe should do for Ukraine, but rather consider what Ukraine can give to Europe.

This view was expressed by the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, after his meeting with the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, in Prague on May 4.

“If I had today only one message, then instead of talking about what Ukraine needs from Europe, perhaps we should start thinking about what Europe needs from Ukraine… We in Europe must rid ourselves of the notion that only we are helping Ukraine,” the Finnish leader emphasized.

If I had today only one message, then instead of talking about what Ukraine needs from Europe, perhaps we should start thinking about what Europe needs from Ukraine… We in Europe must rid ourselves of the notion that only we are helping Ukraine

– Alexander Stubb

Prospects for Europe and Ukraine

Stubb is convinced: Europe should ask itself how Ukraine can help European values and security. He says that from the very beginning he has been a firm advocate for Ukraine’s membership in the EU and Ukraine’s accession to NATO.

The politician expressed his desire to see Ukraine as one of the most capable armed forces in the world within NATO.

“There is no army in Europe or the United States, by the way, capable of waging a modern war the way Ukraine is waging today,” the President of Finland explained, noting that this is exactly why Ukrainians are actually helping in the Middle East.

Stubb noted that Europe should start working with Ukraine from the perspective that this state will remain European not only during the war but also after it.

He cited rough force estimates: Europe has about 2 million soldiers, not counting reserves; Russia about 1.3 million; Ukraine about 800 thousand soldiers.

According to Stubb, Russia’s war against Ukraine will continue this year as well.

In conclusion, the leader urged viewing the crisis as a common challenge for Europe and Ukraine, requiring long-term effort and mutual support for the sake of continental stability.