In a recent interview with the BBC, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb indicated that former U.S. President Donald Trump is uniquely positioned to drive negotiations between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Ukrainian government regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Stubb emphasized that Finland would not recognize Crimea as part of Russia and expressed his desire for Ukraine to join both the European Union and NATO post-conflict. He made these remarks ahead of a scheduled meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
During the interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today program, Stubb highlighted the importance of exerting pressure on Russia to facilitate peace talks. He noted that both Putin and Zelensky are interested in ending the conflict but suggested greater pressure is necessary. Trump, meanwhile, announced his intention to meet with Putin in Hungary and expressed optimism about ending the war, stating that both leaders want a resolution.
Stubb recalled a past conversation with Trump regarding trust in Putin, to which he responded negatively. He asserted that effective negotiations require a combination of incentives and pressures. Stubb remarked on Trump’s evolving approach to Russia, citing a shift from prior negotiations that produced limited outcomes to a more assertive stance.
The interview also addressed the current situation in Ukraine, where Russian forces control significant territories in Donetsk and Luhansk. Stubb maintained that any decisions regarding land must ultimately be made by Ukrainians. He stressed the importance of Ukraine retaining its independence and territorial integrity in any future arrangements.
In terms of economic considerations, Stubb pointed out the struggles of the Russian economy and suggested that European nations should intensify their sanctions, particularly concerning Russian energy exports. He expressed optimism for a potential peace process, urging pragmatic approaches to resolve the conflict. Stubb concluded by indicating a path forward, with hopes for immediate ceasefire discussions and a subsequent peace framework in the near future.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62e9y9wjdjo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss