Finnish President Alexander Stubb has emphasized the urgent need for the United States to implement a new wave of sanctions aimed at undermining Russian industry and compelling President Vladimir Putin to engage in negotiations. In a recent interview with POLITICO, Stubb articulated his belief that Washington should intensify its economic measures against Moscow.
Stubb, known for previously leveraging a golf outing with U.S. President Donald Trump to encourage a firmer stance against Russia, believes the time has come for the U.S. to adopt a more aggressive approach. He remarked, “Trump either goes for carrot or for stick. He tried the carrot in Alaska and in his phone conversation with Putin. And when he realized that the Russians are not going to move and they’re not interested in peace, he [Trump] went for stick.”
“Right now we’re in stick mode,” said Stubb. “The next step should be sanctions — the sanctions package in the [U.S.] Senate.”
Stubb was specifically referencing a comprehensive sanctions bill regarding Russia that has gained wide bipartisan support in the Senate but has been stalled awaiting presidential approval. Following Trump’s indication on Sunday night that the proposed legislation would be “OK with [him],” it has encouraged the Senate to advance on the matter.
Last month, Trump introduced new sanctions against two of Russia’s major oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil—a decision that Stubb praised as a necessary step. He argued that the U.S. is justified in pursuing the sanctions bill, especially given Putin’s refusal to accept a ceasefire. “The only person Putin listens to is an oligarch,” Stubb noted, suggesting that if Russian oligarchs recognize the economic implications of ongoing sanctions, they might prompt a shift in the Kremlin’s stance.
European engagement and the path to peace
When asked about the potential for Europe to engage directly with Putin, as suggested by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Stubb clarified, “Whenever that moment [for direct talks] comes, which it will at some stage … it’ll have to be coordinated.” He expressed satisfaction with the current leadership role of Washington, stating, “If we can contribute … if we can mediate, if we can have conversations with the Ukrainians, with the Americans, with the Europeans, I think that’s good enough.”
Stubb reinforced that achieving a just and lasting peace should take precedence over political theatrics or photo opportunities. However, he remained skeptical about the likelihood of a ceasefire in Ukraine, noting that in his conversations with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and various allies, he does not foresee this outcome in the near future. “Failing all this and reading the room right now, … I just don’t see that [a ceasefire] in the cards,” he said.
Challenges in securing financial support for Ukraine
As the European Union strives to provide ongoing financial support to Ukraine, Stubb’s visit to Brussels comes at a critical juncture, with discussions about funding extending beyond the first quarter of 2026. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has suggested utilizing frozen Russian assets held in Belgium, yet the Belgian Prime Minister has expressed caution regarding potential retaliation from Russia.
Stubb, who met with Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever earlier, stated he did not want to create “public pressure” but expressed confidence that Europe would ultimately find a funding solution. He advocated for a combination of strategies outlined in a Commission paper, which could involve increasing the EU budget or mobilizing debt from member states in addition to the seizure of Russian assets. “It could also be a combination of these three options, but that’s for the European Council to decide.”
Earlier, Polish leader Donald Tusk condemned an explosion on a rail line in Poland that facilitates aid delivery to Ukraine, labeling it as an “act of sabotage.” In response to the escalating tensions, Stubb urged calmness among European leaders, advising a spirit of resilience: “My recommendation is to stay calm. Have a little bit more sisu [grit]. Don’t get too flustered.”