Donald Trump is the only one who can force Russian leader Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table over the war in Ukraine, Finland's president has told the BBC.
Alexander Stubb also said that Finland would never recognise occupied Crimea as part of Russia, and that he wanted to ensure Ukraine became an EU and hopefully NATO member once the war was over.
Stubb spoke to BBC Radio 4's Today programme ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with Trump at the White House, stating, I think we can end this war with your help. Meanwhile, Trump claimed Putin has agreed to meet him in Hungary.
The US president expressed optimism about ending the conflict, suggesting both leaders desire a resolution. Zelensky emphasized the need for pressure on Putin to end the conflict.
Stubb highlighted that economic leverage is essential in compelling Russia to the negotiating table, pointing out that Russia's economy is faltering and that they have faced numerous setbacks in their strategic plans.
According to Stubb, Trump has seen success in negotiating peace possibly more in the past eight months than in three years prior, reflecting a belief in the potential for future negotiations.
Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea remains a contentious issue, with Stubb maintaining that decisions regarding territorial integrity should be made by Ukraine. He hopes that Ukraine will emerge from this conflict not only independent but also as a member of the EU and NATO.
Overall, Stubb remains committed to seeking peace through engagement and pragmatic solutions in the ongoing crisis.
