In statements to the EUObserver website, Stubb, whose country has been a member of the Atlantic alliance since 2023, asserted that he does not share the widespread fear in European capitals about a potential Russian attack.

This article establishes the principle of collective defense, according to which an attack against one or more members is considered an attack against all.

Local analysts point out that the Finnish president’s statements contrast with the bellicose rhetoric boosted by some countries on the eastern flank of the military bloc.

European political scientist Markus Kainu, a specialist in Nordic security, opined that Stubb is trying to reduce tensions and avoid an escalation based on hypothetical scenarios.

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently denounced, during a meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, that the European Union and NATO are imposing a confrontational approach.

Geopolitical experts agree that, despite Western warnings, Moscow has shown no real indication of wanting to militarily challenge the Atlantic alliance.

jdt/arm/rc/ehl/amp