Finland’s President Says World Is Entering ‘New Nuclear Age’
Speaking at the opening of Finland’s 254th National Defence Course in Helsinki, Stubb described the country’s security environment as “harsher than we would prefer,” citing Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine as the primary factor.
“The assessment of our security environment begins with Russia, its objectives and the means it employs to pursue these objectives," he said.
"One of these means is war, and, indeed, Russia is now in its fourth year of war in Ukraine,” Stubb added, emphasizing that Ukraine “is fighting not only for its own existence but also for the whole of Europe and democracy.”
Highlighting Finland’s support for Kyiv, Stubb noted that Ukraine’s experience in modern warfare provides vital lessons for Finland.
“Ukraine has an unparalleled understanding of modern warfare, and we are learning a lot from them. Cooperation is a two-way street,” he said.
While asserting that Russia does not pose an immediate military threat to Finland, Stubb stressed that ongoing investments in deterrence and defense remain critical to preventing future risks.
Describing the current global landscape as one of “multidimensional crises,” Stubb pointed to hybrid threats and the importance of protecting not only physical and digital infrastructure but also what he called “mental infrastructure," meaning societal resilience and unity.
“We have moved on to a new nuclear age where, unfortunately, the role that nuclear weapons play has been increasing,” he said.
Stubb also reflected on the evolving role of the United States, describing Finland’s military cooperation with Washington as “thriving” while acknowledging that America’s strategic focus “is turning partly elsewhere.”
Drawing parallels with historical conflicts, he said Russia’s war in Ukraine mirrors armored wars of the 1940s but incorporates modern elements such as autonomous weapons systems.
“Peace and freedom come at a price,” Stubb concluded, citing Finland’s NATO membership, acquisition of 64 F-35 fighter jets, and increased defense spending as essential measures to protect national and regional security.
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