Finnish President Alexander Stubb has stated that he views U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine with cautious optimism, as reported by Yle.
Stubb suggested that a ceasefire could be reached in the coming months. He expressed this opinion on Thursday during a meeting with political journalists.
"The first step will be striving for a ceasefire, which could take between three to six months, followed by peace negotiations," Stubb said.
According to the president, Finland’s policy is based on the principles of independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Stubb believes that in the coming days, weeks, and months, Ukraine should be supported in a way that ensures it has a strong position for potential ceasefire and peace talks.
Stubb admitted that after speaking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last week, his optimism had increased.
Stubb was asked about the chances of U.S. President Donald Trump getting Russian President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table and ultimately achieving peace in Ukraine.
The Finnish leader noted Trump's approach of issuing ultimatums and forcing Putin into peace talks. In Stubb’s opinion, Putin must be pressured into negotiations rather than persuaded.
"Personally, I believe that Putin understands only tough rhetoric. And this is exactly how Donald Trump is addressing him now," Stubb said, adding that this was a positive development.
According to Stubb, there is no risk that peace in Ukraine will be discussed without Ukraine's participation. He is confident that Europe must also be involved in negotiations in some form, as they will determine the future of European security structures.
