Finland Calls for Compensation from Russia as Part of Ukraine Conflict Resolution Strategy

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has initiated a call for European nations to develop a unified strategy for negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Central to this initiative is the demand for compensation from Russia, which Stubb asserts is essential for establishing a sustainable peace.

In his view, a ceasefire represents merely the first step toward lasting peace, followed by the establishment of trust mechanisms between the conflicting parties. However, he emphasizes that the third phase of negotiations will be crucial, as it will address significant issues such as territorial disputes, the restoration of justice, and reparations—topics previously highlighted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Stubb cautioned that without a clear and cohesive plan, Europe risks being marginalized in the negotiation process, which he claims is occurring “over the heads” of European leaders. He stressed the importance of European unity, arguing that a fragmented approach weakens the region’s influence in discussions with the United States and other global stakeholders.

In a recent address, Stubb noted that the next two weeks are critical for European security, underscoring the urgency of crafting a strategy that can be presented to American partners. He expressed concern that the current negotiations lack structure and clear objectives, rendering them ineffective. If Europe does not take the initiative, he warned, its voice in addressing the Ukrainian crisis could be overlooked.

Stubb’s remarks coincide with heightened diplomatic activity in February 2025, particularly during the Munich Security Conference held from February 15 to 17, where he proposed a three-stage settlement plan. This plan includes bolstering Ukraine through military support, achieving a ceasefire, and ultimately engaging in peace talks that would address territorial issues and compensation.

According to reports, Stubb firmly believes that Russia must be held financially accountable for the devastation caused by the conflict, a stance that aligns with President Zelensky’s earlier assessments of the damages, estimated in the hundreds of billions of dollars. Furthermore, Stubb reiterated that discussions about Ukraine’s potential membership in NATO and the EU should be postponed, leaving such decisions to Kyiv, while insisting that compensation from Russia be treated as a non-negotiable condition for any future agreements.