Alexander Stubb: Russia's invasion drove Finland and Sweden to NATO

At the Helsinki security forum organized by the Finland Institute of International Affairs, President Alexander Stubb stated that Finland and Sweden would never have joined NATO if Russia had not invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Stubb noted that Europe is currently facing Russian hybrid attacks and observed that Russia has failed to achieve its objectives in the war. He suggested that the conflict in Ukraine might conclude around 2027 or 2028, though he noted the timeline is difficult to predict with certainty.

Regarding future relations, Stubb explained that Finland intends to rebuild diplomatic ties with Russia only after the war in Ukraine has ended. He emphasized that rebuilding broken trust is a significant challenge. The short-term priority remains ensuring Ukraine's independence and the strength of its defense and economy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participated in the forum via video link, thanking Finland for its support and noting a recent drone agreement signed with the country.