Finland’s President discusses Ukraine’s NATO membership benefits
President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, has expressed confidence that Ukraine’s eventual membership in NATO and the European Union will be advantageous for all parties in the long run. He stated that Russia’s strategic objectives in its war against Ukraine have not been achieved, as Moscow aimed to absorb Ukraine but instead has seen it align more closely with European and transatlantic values.
Stubb pointed out that Russia attempted to prevent NATO expansion, yet Finland and Sweden have joined the Alliance, while its current members are increasing their defense expenditures. He highlighted the strength of the Ukrainian military, which boasts 800,000 personnel and extensive experience in modern warfare, including the use of millions of drones. This capability, he noted, provides valuable data that other NATO countries do not possess.
According to Stubb, Ukraine’s accession to NATO would significantly enhance European security. He remarked, “It’s not just about Ukraine needing our help, although it certainly does. In the future, we may need Ukraine’s assistance as well.” He firmly believes that both NATO and Ukraine would benefit from this partnership.
In context, Ukraine submitted its application for accelerated NATO membership in September 2022. During the July 2023 summit in Vilnius, allies simplified the membership pathway, though Kyiv has yet to receive an official invitation. A declaration at the upcoming NATO summit in Washington in 2024 states that “Ukraine’s future lies in NATO.” Despite this, the Trump administration previously asserted that Ukraine’s accession to the Alliance is currently unrealistic.
