04.03.2025 20:31
Finnish President Alexander Stubb stated in a statement following the 'Ukraine' summit held in London that Kiev should be a 'de facto' member of NATO.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb made statements to CNN following the "Ukraine" summit held in London.
"I RETURNED FROM LONDON MORE OPTIMISTIC" Stubb noted that there has been a 'discrepancy' among European countries in recent weeks and that there is no plan, stating, "I returned from London more optimistic; I think we are starting to see a draft of a plan."
Finnish President Alexander Stubb "PRESSURE ON RUSSIA MUST BE INCREASED" Stubb expressed that in the first phase of the peace plan, Ukraine needs to be strengthened militarily and economically, as well as increasing pressure on Russia through sanctions. He also stated that a "security arrangements system" led by Ukraine and supported by Europe should be established, emphasizing the importance of having "ceasefire and peace talks" following this process.
"WHY DON'T WE GIVE THEM DE FACTO MEMBERSHIP?" Stubb emphasized that Ukraine's accession to NATO seems "difficult" in the near future, asking, "Why don't we give them de facto membership instead? When the negotiations are over and a peace agreement is made, if Russia violates this agreement and attacks Ukraine again, Ukraine will become a direct NATO member."
"THE US CANNOT WALK HAND IN HAND WITH RUSSIA" Stubb argued that Russia is trying to prove to the world that the US is on its side, stating, "Russia is the aggressor. (Russia) has started a war to seize and destroy the Ukrainian state and Ukrainian identity." He also addressed the role of the US, saying, "If the US wants to maintain its position as a superpower and leader of the free world, it cannot walk hand in hand with Russia."
"PUTIN WILL BE VERY HAPPY AND SMILING IN THE KREMLIN" In response to the question of how US President Donald Trump's statements would affect Russian President Vladimir Putin, Stubb replied, "(Putin) will be very happy and smiling in the Kremlin."