The President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, calls on Europe to continue supporting Ukraine, warning that an end to the war in the near future is unlikely.

In his discussion with international journalists, he noted that European partners must remain united and consistent in helping Ukraine, despite internal challenges amid a corruption scandal sweeping Kyiv.

“A ceasefire in Ukraine is unlikely until spring, and European allies must continue to support the country, despite the corruption scandal engulfing Kyiv”

– Stubb

According to Stubb, to get through the winter successfully Europe needs the so-called “sisu” – the Finnish concept of endurance, resilience, and determination – as Russia continues hybrid attacks and information warfare across the continent.

“Russia continues its hybrid attacks and information warfare across the continent”

– Stubb

Stubb noted that it may take time before concrete decisions are made, but what matters is beginning discussions right away with a view to assessing progress closer to spring.

“I am not very optimistic about achieving a ceasefire or the start of peace talks, at least this year”

– Stubb

Finland recalls its own experience after two wars with Russia in the 1940s: the country lost part of its territory and chose military neutrality, which was revisited only after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, after which the country joined NATO.

Also, Stubb noted that personal contacts with U.S. leaders help explain Finland’s position and view of the situation in Ukraine. “If he accepts at least one of the ten ideas – that’s good,” said Stubb.

“If he accepts at least one of the ten ideas – that’s good”

– Stubb

Stubb praised U.S. sanctions against Russian oil and gas companies as “excellent work,” but stressed that more needs to be done to give Ukraine the ability to strike Russia’s military and defense industry.

Regarding future development, he also expressed the possibility of new meetings between U.S. and Russian leaders later this year to discuss further steps toward resolving the conflict.

Stubb’s position underlines the importance of long-term support for Ukraine from Europe and allies, even amid internal challenges, to maintain stability and the possibility of diplomatic resolution at the global level.